The York Realist

The York Realist is a character driven romantic drama, set in rural Yorkshire. Winner of the Critics Circle Theatre Award for Best New Play in 2002, it comes to WA for the first time under the direction of Barry Park, in a good looking and well-acted production at Garrick Theatre.

Set in the living room and small kitchen of a farm labourer's cottage in 1960, the place is beautifully created in a set designed by Barry Park (Inspired by the Peter McKintosh’s design for the 2018 Donmar Warehouse production) and created with great detail by Alistair and Karen Woodcock, to the extent that the sink has running water. The set includes excellent artistic detail by Ursula Kotura. Simple but appropriate and of the era costumes were provided by Nyree Hughes.

The plot is reasonably simple. Farm labourer George, acting in the York Mystery Plays, forms a relationship with Assistant Director, John. Although both would like to continue the relationship beyond the duration of the production, George’s dedication to his ill mother and links to his home make this challenging. A complex and interesting relationship setting the time when homosexual relationships were still illegal.

Central character George is played with depth by Alex Comstock, in a very strong anchoring performance. Love interest, Londoner, John, is played with quiet sensitivity by Sean Wcislo. The romantic tension between this couple at times is quite palpable and their complex relationship is beautifully drawn.

The role of Mother is played convincingly by Lis Hoffman, with strong supporting performances from Louise Plant as George’s sister Barbara, and Phil Bedworth as her husband Arthur. Roxanne O'Connor plays neighbour Doreen with genuine care and the cast is completed beautifully with a strong performance by Keaton Humphreys as George’s nephew Jack.

A gentle story, that is carefully directed as required, with some thoughtful and intelligent performances. A romance with a difference.

Kimberley Shaw