Review: DRIP, Bush Theatre
By: Charlie Wilks Dec. 07, 2018
This is a really sweet show. It's one that enchants its audience, inviting them into a story of vulnerability, queer identity and synchronised swimming.
Liam enters ready to conduct his Year 11 assembly presentation. He's nervous, but prepared. Armed with his guitar and several original songs he steps out to the front and tells his experience of moving to Hull, and all of the exciting moments that came along with it.
By doing this he's hoping to win back his best mate Caz, who has fallen out with him because of a previous incident. There's a delicious charm to Andrew Finnigan's performance, and throughout the one-hour piece he portrays the delicate naivety of a boy that's unsure about lots of things, yet comfortable in taking the time to work it out.
He takes us through the scenes of his life, playing indie-like songs to explain these sporadic moments. The tunes are catchy and cute, and lull the audience into a melodic calmness. Tom Wells' script is beautifully written. His words tenderly sooth and the simplicity of the text is a real strength - we are drawn in further and further.
Throughout, the audience are invited to participate with the actions on stage. One may hear this and gasp with fear, but the approach that's been taken is a more softened one. On arrival you're given a blue poncho, which comes into play later on (don't worry you won't get wet).
On top of this there's inflatable animals, pool noodles, water pistols, bubble blowers and so much more. It's lovely to be asked to be involved. And because we have been so much a part of the performance, our investment means that we care a lot about Liam and his experience.
Drip is full of joy, sorrow and unshielded honesty. It's a refreshing watch.
Drip at Bush Theatre until 22 December
Photo credit: Sam Taylor
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