The Normal Heart

In November and December, most community and professional theatres are delivering fun shows, with multiple Shakespearian comedies, bright musicals, farces and pantomimes on offer. GRADS - The Graduate Dramatic Society have clearly decided to go in another direction, with the current production, Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart, set in the early years of the AIDS crises.

A semi-autographical play, playwright Larry Kramer founded Gay Men’s Health Crisis in 1981 with five friends - before AIDS even had acquired its name. This play is a record of that tumultuous time.

Zane Alexander plays Ned Weeks, based on the author and the central character. Zane is superb in this complex, superbly written and challenging role. Ned is egotistical, opinionated, bombastic and a bully - he is also (mostly) right in what he is saying, in a world that refuses to listen. Zane’s thoughtful, well-grounded, and honest performance allows us to like this sometimes-frustrating character and this excellent central performance is key to the success of the production.

Steven Hounsome is strong as Felix Turner, who becomes Ned’s partner - a charming performance and well-crafted journey. Dean McAskil is excellent as Ned’s brother - both adversary and loving family member. Anna Head, is the only woman in this play. She plays Dr Emma Brookner, based on real-life doctor Linda Laubenstein, who pioneered AIDS identification and research, in an intelligent and beautiful performance.

Phil Bedworth is impressive as Bruce Niles, an initially closeted gay man whose “tread carefully” approach has him butting heads with Ned. He delivers a stunning and captivating monologue. Adam Poole as Mickey Marcus has some scene-stealing moments, while Jordan Holloway’s positive talking Tommy provides a breath of fresh air with his warm southern-drawl. Phillip Steele-Young and Jason Blaine complete the cast well.

Superbly directed, as we expect from Barry Park, the action takes place on a neutral set, with rostra blocks helping to create ten different locales over 16 scenes. Superb, organic scoring composed by Myles Wright helps manipulate the mood and ties the show together. Effective lighting is designed by Mark Nicholson.

The Actors’ Hub’s intimate space is an excellent choice for this moving play - which is one of the best acted plays of the year. An inspiring lead-up to PrideFest, this play will particularly appeal to anyone interested in recent history - especially queer history and those who enjoy strongly acted drama.

Kimberley Shaw

Buy the play script here.