Leaves of Glass at Park Theatre

For those of us who were fortunate enough to grow up with the books of author and playwright Philip Ridley, Leaves of Glass will feel somewhat nostalgic, with themes connecting his works for children and this play for older audiences.

Returning after its critically acclaimed premiere in 2007 and set in East London, the drama follows Steven, his wife Debbie, brother Barry and their mother Liz. From the outset, Steven (portrayed with a bubbling toxicity by Ned Costello) appears to be a well-rounded, caring son and concerned brother to his sibling (a menacing and memorable performance given by Joseph Potter), who struggles with alcoholism. However – like with most narcissists – there is more simmering under the surface, which Steven conceals very well. Ridley’s pacing is rendered seamlessly in the writing, which gathers momentum akin to the steaming end of a shrieking kettle. There are snippets of dark, disturbing instances that cut into the dialogue, like when Steven visits Barry, who is clearly traumatised as he exclaims, “He’ll hurt me.”

Repressed memories, generational trauma, abuse and manipulation are all at play, which director Max Harrison tightly winds together. In one gripping scene, Steven is in the basement, buried under guilt, when Barry comes searching for him. The audience is swept into darkness, heightening the senses and apprehension. Set design by Kit Hinchcliffe really tautens the atmosphere, as we watch on with bated breath. Similarly, in the dinner scene, there’s a light that slowly descends over the table, plunging us into sudden darkness again, while the intense back-and-forth heated conversation between Steven and Debbie (a similarly excellent depiction from Katie Eldred) gathers momentum. There are many moments like this where you are left reeling from the nervy tension and incredible strain that is sometimes unbearable.

Potter’s realistic clumsiness, such as when he bumps his head on a bench and stumbles hard onto the floor, makes the audience unsure if these incidents are part and parcel of the play or genuine accidents. Fight scenes are well choreographed, and the auditorium’s seating extremely close to its action, which must have been a challenge to consider. Kacey Ainsworth’s portrayal of Liz is both effortless and stirring as a beleaguered and bereaving widow who has lost more than she can bear but remains unyielding. Through the production’s dark web of secrets are moments of comedic reprieve in which there is a little time to catch your breath before the next gut punch.

With outstanding performances by all, Leaves of Glass hauls you by the collar and doesn’t let go, in one of the most visceral, intimidating and relentlessly gritty dramas you will see this year.

Selina Begum

Leaves of Glass is at Park Theatre from 16^th January until 10^th February 2024. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.

Watch the trailer for Leaves of Glass here: