15 – 19 October
Nathaniel is a serial dater. It’s not because he enjoys dating, but because he hasn’t quite clicked with anyone yet. Winner of the 2022 Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting 2022, Nathan Queeley-Dennis’ debut is a heartfelt love letter to Birmingham. Along the way it explores what it is like to be a Brummie and a young Black man in Britain. And it is not what you might think.
Navigating his way through Black masculinity via the profoundly meaningful and monogamous relationship he has with his barber, Nathaniel gives his considered and thoughtful opinion around a host of subjects. These include skincare, the three types of people to avoid (people who want to start a podcast, Noel Edmonds, and his call centre manager) and his love of fine art.
He has his friendship WhatsApp group to support his anxiety about his latest date and ground him. But tonight is the big one. Perhaps the most important night of his life. Is tonight’s date going to be the one?
Directed by Dermot Daly, there is a static set, with Queely-Dennis standing alone on a stage with a red drape behind and a pile of assorted clothes scattered around him. However, static is never a word that could describe the performer. An expressive face, a warm engaging manner, and the skill to switch pace and direction make the sixty minute show fly by.
There are laughs aplenty delivered with perfect timing along with a fine mimicry giving voice to the multitude of characters depicted. Along with his Jamaican born father who doesn’t like how British his son has become, we meet the various dates, demeaning waiters and, funniest of all, his work buddy Robin. The black heart emoji has a special place in the story, describing how Black men can break out of any stereotypes and vent their affection for each other in a truly masculine, caring, empathetic way.
Lighting changes and sharp sound syncs turn the mood in a split second. A highlight is a Beyoncé medley to tell Nathaniel which girl from the office to ask out. Each one of his dates have the names of Destiny’s Child singers. Although much of the banter making up the script is slight and easy going, there is a real sense of charm which carries the piece through. And the jokes and clever one liners keep on coming together with a smattering of original catch phrases.
The finale provides a change of mood and a more sombre and somehow more fitting conclusion. Bullring Techno Makeout Jamz is a fun evening hosted by a charming host with hints of a meaningful message conveyed through laughter. As Nathaniel would say in his native Brummie, ‘It’s bostin’’.
★★★★☆ Bryan J Mason, 16 October 2024
Photo credit: Mihaela Bodlovic
