Peter Gill plays are very literary, very poetic, and as such they stand out today. They don’t make ’em like this any more. It struck me on seeing this one again how difficult it must be to both stage and perform, but new company Both Barrels Theatre pull it off.
Set in East Cardiff in the 50’s and the 70’s, it concerns friends and neighbours Gerard and Vincent and their respective mothers, their fathers mentioned but unseen. In the 50’s they all live in a working class neighbourhood, just about making things meet. Neighbourliness is the norm and they are forever popping in next door.
By the 70’s Gerard has left home but is back to see his mam. Vincent has been to sea, married and fathered a child, but hasn’t really left home. Both mams have their problems and insecurities but are devoted to their sons, as are they to their mothers. The boys look back from the 70’s and realise how much their relationship in the 50’s has impacted their lives.
It’s a non-linear narrative and you have to concentrate and keep your wits about you. The many short scenes switch quickly between times and characters and its best to approach it as a whole, rather than look for the literal meaning of dialogue or scenes. That way it rewards you, like looking at a painting rather than reading a book.
Staged in what looks like a Richard Serra sculpture that they reconfigure occasionally, it’s beautifully performed by Andy Rush and Toby Gordon as Gerard and Vincent respectively, Sioned Jones as Gerard’s mam & Tameka Mortimer as Vincent’s mam. George Richmond-Scott’s staging is very much is in harmony with the ‘staccato’ nature of the material.
This was my first visit to the Omnibus Theatre, the nearest to my home, but with work of this quality there’s little doubt I’ll be back.
Gareth's Culture and Travel Blog 
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