It’s hard to avoid reading about financial misdeeds in the news these days. ‘Consumption’ combines comedy and drama to tackle the issue of abusing payment plans, credit cards and loan sharks. It’s a highly physical 50 minutes of impressive acting from a very skilful cast. Mark Wallington, as lead character Sebastian, puts in a fervent performance as a man verging on a nervous breakdown due to his upper-class girlfriend, Penelope (Grace Bussey), digging him into further financial trouble. The rest of the cast are also noteworthy, with tight performances all round. Certain points in the script are absurd and unrealistic, and could be patched up. However, it does present an inspiring conclusion.

theSpace on the Mile, until 28 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Kieran Scott]