Photos by Charles Flint

Northbound Boy: A Heartfelt Journey of Identity and Unexpected Connections

Northbound Boy is the kind of play that sneaks up on you. Written by James Hogan and directed by Alex Jackson, it tells a story that’s deceptively simple on the surface but brimming with layers of emotion and meaning. It’s a tale of family, identity, and the ties that bind us, all wrapped up in a journey northward – both literal and metaphorical.

And there’s something magical about walking into the King’s Head Theatre, where the walls seem to hum with stories just waiting to be told. It’s the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret, where the intimacy of the setting draws you in and makes you feel like you’re about to experience something special. And with this play, that feeling proves to be spot on.

Witty, charming, and just Queer joy: Northbound Boy is the must-see play this year.

Neil Ashton leads the cast as Ken, and his performance is nothing short of captivating. Ashton (It’s a Sin) brings a quiet intensity to the role, making Ken feel like someone you know, someone you care about. He navigates the complexities of his character with a subtlety that’s all too rare, letting the audience see the cracks in Ken’s tough exterior without ever resorting to melodrama.

Opposite him, Cormac Hyde-Corrin steps onto the stage as Rory, marking his debut with a performance that catches you off guard in the best possible way. You may know him as bully Harry from Heartstopper – prepare to be surprised. Hyde-Corrin strips away that tough-guy exterior to reveal a character brimming with warmth and vulnerability. Rory is worlds away from the role that made him known, showcasing a depth and maturity that feels beyond his years. 

The chemistry between Rory and Ken is undeniable, their connection unfolding naturally, drawing you deeper into their story. It’s the kind of relationship that feels lived-in, as if these two have been through it all together, and you’re just lucky enough to witness it.

And then there’s Sarah Moyle as Aunt Ivy. Moyle’s portrayal is a masterclass in wit and wisdom, bringing a sense of grounded reality to the play. Her humour is more than just a light touch – it’s the thread that ties so much of the story together. She’s the kind of character who says what everyone else is thinking, and she does it with a sharpness that’s both funny and endearing.

Hogan’s script deftly blends humour and heartache, with lines that make you laugh out loud and others that hit you right in the gut. It’s more than just a journey. The dialogue is sharp, delivered by a cast that knows how to make every word count. Jackson’s direction allows the story to unfold at its own pace. In the quieter moments, Northbound Boy truly shines, pulling you in deeper and making you feel like part of the conversation.

But let’s be honest, what really makes Northbound Boy special is its unapologetically Queer lens. It’s refreshing to see a play that embraces Queer themes so openly and joyfully, without falling into clichĂŠs or stereotypes. The relationships feel real and relatable, and the characters are richly drawn, with each one bringing something unique to the table.

Final Thoughts ★★★★★

The King’s Head Theatre, with its intimate setting, is the perfect venue for a play like this. The proximity to the stage creates a sense of closeness that’s hard to achieve in larger spaces – you’re not just observing the story; you’re living it alongside the characters. Every glance, every gesture feels magnified, drawing you further into performance.

And would I recommend Northbound Boy? Without hesitation. It’s a play that resonates on a personal level, full of moments that will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even shed a tear. It’s a story that stays with you long after you’ve left the theatre, and in the end, isn’t that what great theatre is all about?

Playing at the King’s Head Theatre, until 1 September 2024.

Disclaimer: Ticket was purchased without any association or endorsement from the theatre.

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