Unicorn at Garrick Theatre
An unconventional new sex comedy by Mike Bartlett, Unicorn tackles an essential question in many couples’ relationships: what do you do if the spark starts fading after 20+ years of marriage? Packed with hilarious one-liners and great acting, Unicorn guarantees fantastic entertainment.
Polly (Nicola Walker) and Nick (Stephen Mangan), facing this trouble, reach out to 28-year-old student Kate (Erin Doherty) to start a relationship as a throuple. While they are a comparatively old-fashioned couple who struggle to reconcile their faithfulness with the concept of embracing new experiences, Kate is a whirlwind of possibility who pushes both of them out of their comfort zone. After a whole range of trials and tribulations, the denouement finds them content with their choice and happily committed to their three-way relationship.
James MacDonald’s understated production features a minimalist set by Miriam Buethe, which keeps the focus on the actors. This lets the performers take charge, and they certainly don’t disappoint: each of them is brilliant. Mangan’s Nick is usually confident and strives to maintain that power, but frequently displays vulnerability as he is faced with the prospect of growing older. Walker’s Polly is spirited and likeable, going out of her way to do what’s best for the couple, while also facing the difficulties of moving out of one’s comfort zone.
Doherty’s Kate is the voice of temptation for the older couple: frequently outgoing, progressive and kind, she voices contempt for tradition and “the system” (even while later working towards becoming a barrister), and encourages pioneering new ways. Unfortunately, this is also where the show’s dialogue falls into clunky territory: Kate addresses homophobia, toxic masculinity and even the environment. All important topics, naturally, but merely name–dropped here, and at the cost of a proper exploration of this polyamorous relationship, which otherwise remains fairly surface-level.
That’s a pity, considering the play’s main themes, such as ageing, sexual fantasy and difficulties of relationships over time, are fascinating, not tackled very frequently, and certainly deserve the full amount of the show’s two-hour runtime. Nevertheless: Unicorn remains perfectly enjoyable with plenty of great gags infused with sexual innuendo, likeable characters and great portrayals in a well-paced package. Not as deep and revolutionary as it could have been, but certainly more than pleasurable to watch.
Michael Higgs
Photo: Marc Brenner
Unicorn is at Garrick Theatre from 4th February until 26th April 2025. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.
Watch the trailer for Unicorn at Garrick Theatre here:
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