Some plays confront the complexity of the human mind with raw honesty, and Double Act at Southwark Playhouse does exactly that. Written by Nick Hyde and directed by Jef Hall-Flavin, this striking production navigates the darkest corners of mental health, exploring the weight of internal struggle with an intricate blend of humour and poignancy.
At its core is a man on the edge, played by both Oliver Maynard and Nick Hyde, who embody two warring aspects of the same mind. One is intent on ending his life, the other determined to pull him back from the brink. Their battle unfolds through moments of absurd comedy, self-reflection, and gut-punch emotion, capturing the contradictions of suicidal ideation with striking theatricality.
A bold and deeply moving exploration of the mind, blending dark humour with unsettling honesty
Maynard and Hyde’s performances are gripping and deeply affecting, each pushing and pulling at the other with an unnerving chemistry. The constant interplay between them – sometimes playful, sometimes vicious – keeps the energy electric, ensuring that even the quieter moments feel charged with meaning. Their physicality, timing, and emotional intensity create a dynamic that keeps the audience engaged throughout.
Hall-Flavin’s direction enhances the surreal nature of the production, allowing tension to build in unexpected ways. Christophe Eynde’s set design is stark yet versatile, a space that becomes increasingly oppressive as the protagonist’s crisis unfolds. Holly Ellis’ lighting shifts seamlessly between tones of harsh reality and heightened unreality, while Frederick Waxman’s sound design adds an extra layer of unease, mirroring the fractured mind at the play’s centre.
While Double Act doesn’t offer easy answers, it never shies away from its subject matter. At times, the tonal shifts between comedy and tragedy are sharp, but rather than feeling disjointed, they contribute to the emotional volatility of the story. The balance isn’t always perfect, but when it lands, it hits hard.
Final Thoughts ★★★★
Would I recommend Double Act? Yes. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s a compelling one. The show walks a fine line between humour and despair, offering a thought-provoking and uniquely theatrical exploration of mental health. A bold and affecting production that challenges, moves, and stays with you long after you leave the theatre.
Playing at Southwark Playhouse until 5 April 2025.
Disclaimer: A complimentary ticket was provided in return for an honest and unbiased review.
