Dave Florezâs The Gift at Park Theatre opens with an intriguing premise: an anonymous package arrives at Colinâs door containing something both unsettling and inexplicable. What follows is a comedic, spiralling tale of paranoia, obsession, and the cracks that form in family dynamics when fear takes hold. Directed by Adam Meggido, this production offers a blend of biting wit and existential unease, skilfully treading the line between absurdity and relatability.
Nicholas Burns, known for his flair for comedic timing, fully embodies the tightly-wound Colin. His portrayal carries much of the playâs energy, capturing both the absurd hilarity and the deeper anxieties that come with confronting the unknown. Burnsâ Colin is a man who, while amusingly neurotic, also evokes a strange sympathy as he seeks answers that might never come. The tension rises and releases in bursts of laughter, aided by Laura Haddockâs grounded yet sharp portrayal of Colinâs sister, Lisa, who balances exasperation with care.

The play truly takes off with the arrival of Alex Priceâs Brian, whose deadpan delivery and knack for physical comedy elevate the productionâs pacing. His reactions to the chaos unfolding around Colin are priceless, bringing a layer of levity that the script needs to sustain its two-hour run.
Paranoia has never been so funny â or quite so relatable
Florezâs writing is sharp, with dialogue that dances between everyday realism and heightened absurdity. However, while the first act is tight and well-paced, the second act loses some momentum. The script revisits certain themes without fully advancing them, leaving moments that feel a touch repetitive. Yet the castâs chemistry and Meggidoâs direction ensure that weâre never too far from a well-placed gag or a cleverly staged moment.
The minimalist set design underscores Colinâs psychological unraveling. Its starkness creates an unnerving atmosphere, with lighting shifts subtly reflecting his escalating paranoia. The productionâs technical aspects, particularly the sound design, work seamlessly to heighten both the comedy and tension.
Final Thoughts â â â â
Would I recommend The Gift? Absolutely. This is a smart, dark comedy thatâs both entertaining and eerily reflective of how we grapple with fear in an increasingly chaotic world. Though it could use a slight trim in the latter half, its relatable performances and snappy dialogue make it a worthwhile night at the theatre. Plus, who doesnât love a good existential crisis wrapped in a comedic bow?
Playing at the Park Theatre until 1 March 2025.
Disclaimer: A complimentary ticket was provided in return for an honest and unbiased review.
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