Photo by William Page-Brown

JOCK at the White Bear Theatre: A Riveting Look at Masculinity and Belonging

Stepping into JOCK at the White Bear Theatre is like diving headfirst into the charged, heady world of university rugby societies – a realm where masculinity reigns supreme, and conformity is king. Charlie Howard’s one-man show doesn’t just scrape the surface of these themes; it digs deep, peeling back layers of camaraderie, competition, and vulnerability with a deft touch.

The play begins with Howard’s protagonist, a fresh-faced university hopeful, thrust into the testosterone-fuelled chaos of a rugby initiation. What unfolds is a visceral, often darkly humorous exploration of the lengths young men go to for acceptance. Howard’s performance is a powerhouse, seamlessly switching between characters with a fluidity that brings each scene to life. His ability to shift from brash bravado to raw emotion keeps the audience firmly in his grip.

Howard’s razor-sharp portrayal of toxic masculinity is both captivating and unsettling – an honest reflection of a world that thrives on power and exclusion.

The direction by Ramiro Batista cleverly balances humour and tension, never allowing the narrative to descend into caricature. The sparse set design, consisting of little more than a bench and a rugby ball, becomes a canvas for Howard’s storytelling prowess. The minimalist approach underscores the isolation and intensity of the protagonist’s journey, while the sound design punctuates moments of introspection and conflict with precision.

At its core, JOCK examines the cost of belonging. The protagonist’s internal struggle – the desire to fit in versus the yearning to stay true to oneself – resonates universally, even if the setting is specific. The script’s sharp wit and brutal honesty draw laughter and gasps in equal measure, though some moments verge on predictability, slightly undercutting the overall impact.

Final Thoughts ★★★★

Would I recommend JOCK? Absolutely. It’s a compelling narrative brought to life by a magnetic performance, offering a poignant commentary on identity and acceptance. While the play doesn’t reinvent the wheel, its raw energy and emotional depth make it a standout piece. The lights went out on a note of quiet introspection, leaving the audience in a reflective silence that spoke volumes.

A gripping exploration of toxic masculinity with a brilliant central performance – JOCK is a triumph that earns its place in the spotlight.

Playing at the White Bear Theatre until 8 January 2025.

Disclaimer: A complimentary ticket was provided in return for an honest and unbiased review.

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