ED2015 4/5 Reviews ED2015 Theatre Reviews

The Colours Of Kenny Roach (Peppermint Muse)

By Andy Leask | Published on Saturday 22 August 2015

In this, the age of the TV antihero, it’s easy to forget the skill necessary to make an unlikable character sympathetic. Roach, an embittered, failing artist is far from likeable: alcoholic, abusive husband, absentee father. Luckily, actor John Stenhouse is skilled enough to bring out his humanity, without shying away from his many flaws. As we watch Roach’s life unravel in a haze of booze and recriminations, he never feels less than real, spitting out insults born out of his failings and inadequacies. The staging is simple yet effective – art projected behind the actors – and the soundtrack from The Smiths fits the tone perfectly. This is compelling, thoughtful, character-driven drama that packs an emotional punch.

theSpace on Niddry Street, until 29 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Andrew Leask]