Velvet at Above the Stag Theatre

Tom has always dreamt of being a successful actor, and now after years of disappointment he is finally presented with his golden opportunity… and an impossible decision to make.

Set against the backdrop of the 2017 #MeToo movement, Velvet explores the complex realities of harassment within the industry from a gay male perspective. However, when most creatives are riding the wave of change, will Tom’s opportunity slip through his fingers?

TomRatcliffe is the writer and star of this one man show which brings a very fresh, current and unique perspective on the often unreported uneven power dynamic within the arts and how this can be exploited in many ways, both online and in person.

With the #MeToo movement being at the forefront of many peoples lives at the moment the personal, small stories can often be lost or heavily criticized by those who are not understanding. Ratcliffe shines a light on why these are important stories to tell, and how often many small actions can build into horrific results.

There is general humour throughout and the use of AV works really well to show how these power dynamics can be manipulated from afar.  This is a story very much of it’s time and the tension and frustration are palpable as the show builds towards its climax.  You can’t help but really feel for the character of Tom as he is the subject of such harassment for trying to find his way in the arts industry.  It avoids the obvious stereotypes and you are left with a performance which feels very real and that covers multiple angles.

Velvet is on at the Above the Stag theatre until the 27th of October, tickets start from £20 and can be booked directly through the Above the Stag website.

Tickets were complimentary in exchange for review