From the moment Welsey (Jack Stokes) tentatively enters the studio of artist Mr Lupine (Lee Bainbridge),hoping to become the artist’s apprentice, the game begins.
Wesley, suffering from PTSD following his time in the war, is nervous and anxious to please as he really needs the position. He is confronted by the artist, looming and large, posing question after question, alternately aggressive and familiar, toying as a huge tom cat would tease a timid mouse.
This play is both enthralling, captivating, and shocking, held together, as it is, by an excellent script and extraordinary acting. The power of balance tilts and tips as young Wesley is goaded and Mr Lupine, or Sir as he sometimes prefers to be called, tilts on the axis of his self belief to reveal something sinister and destructive.
Written and directed by Philip Stokes, performed by Jack Stokes and Lee Bainbridge with a subtle music score by Brian Morrell and Jack Stokes, this is as complete an experience of good theatre as you could hope to see.
Holden Street Theatres – The Arch 18th Feb-23 March
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