The York Realist - Donmar Warehouse / Crucible Sheffield

I loved this - such nuanced and heartbreaking performances from all of the cast. So much left unsaid, but understood between the characters. Little nuances - John touching George’s back at the table with the family around, the nuzzle on the back of George’s neck. Grief and loss expressed silently, the restrictions of one’s mind and circumstances, and snatches of freedom. Very funny also with some great one liners - particularly in the family’s discussion of the York Mysteries.

I particularly enjoyed the performance from Katie West as Doreen. The women here were fully rounded characters. Her loss and longing and recognition of the situation just as emotional. Ben Batt has such a heartbreaking face and acted with pain written on it even though his character didn’t always express this vocally, and yes, his chest is a damn fine work of art. Jonathan Bailey’s puppy dog eyes and wide eyed excitement were so sincere and affecting you just wanted to cuddle him. A great selection of knitwear and braces too. Much credit to all concerned - particularly the director Robert Hastie and write Peter Gill for such an ensemble piece where each character mattered.

After a few months of some good but not outstanding plays, something to rival last year’s The Ferryman, Angels of America (Part 1) and Beginning. 

Would I change anything? Well, I wanted to spend more time with these characters, to find out more about John and George, and in my head had an alternative ending. But, as it was, I think it was perfect for me.

The behind the scenes is rather good too. www.donmarwarehouse.com/production/6395/the-york-realist/#behind-the-scenes