Together We’re Heavy at the Cock Tavern Theatre

The female-led company CANUK was founded in 2008 and is committed to devise, develop and inspire strong new work in collaboration with playwrights and actors. CANUK recently took the critically acclaimed show The Strong Breast Revolution to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Now it presents the world premiere of Chris Purnell’s new play Together We’re Heavy at the Cock Tavern Theatre.

Rob, who is a bit on the chubby side, is suffering from a mid-life crisis at 25! He finds himself trapped in a dead-end job, spending his spare time with his mom and her friends instead of beautiful neighbour Lorraine whom he adores but who is in a relationship with he-man Walter. Walter indulges in humiliating Rob, preferably in front of Lorraine. After unsuccessfully trying to meet girls in a step dancing course Rob resigns himself to his fate and refuses to leave the flat that he is sharing with his mom. Encouraged by the arrival of fitness instructor Gary, Rob evolves into a new man and finally dares accost the pretty girl-next-door with unforeseen consequences

This is a play about obsession and Jai Lynch gives an outstanding performance as the child-like, shy Rob who is defenceless against Walter’s attacks and the overwhelming love of his well-meaning but somewhat overbearing mother (Jean Apps). Some of the dialogue seems a bit uneven at times but this is a fast-paced play with believable characters competently directed by Tanith Lindon.

The cast includes Jean Apps, Miranda Keeling, Jai Lynch, Alex Papdakis, and Austin Spangler.

The show is at the Cock Tavern in Kilburn from 29 September to 24 October 2009. Tickets are available online via Ticket Web or by phone at 08444 771 000.