Make Mine a Double: Tunnels and Press at Park Theatre

Park Theatre presents a season of double bills in their intimate studio space. The evening opens with Tunnels. Written by Oliver Yellop, who also performs alongside Lewis Bruniges, this two-hander blends light-hearted comedy with tragedy.

We’re taken back to 1968 – it’s the peak of the Cold War. Paul (Bruniges) and Freddie (Yellop) are cousins endeavouring to escape East Berlin. To do so they must navigate landmines and the police. As dramatic as this might sound on paper, the fact is the play is incredibly conversational. This is to its detriment, rendering the pace somewhat sluggish and uneven.

Live music written and performed by Benji Hooper adds to the atmosphere and evokes suitable emotions throughout. The acting is strong, however, the script is too compressed. A great many themes are broached upon but never explored deeply enough.

With little in the way of set, both actors employ excellent physicality when depicting the tunnel digging. They are also incredibly convincing as cousins who are loyal and loving to one another. This is a play about family and nationality – fittingly relevant today. The purpose of Park Theatre’s season is to showcase new talent. Undoubtedly there is talent on display, but here’s hoping a more refined version of Tunnels enjoys a future run.

The second performance of the evening is Press. This solo show is written and performed by Sam Hoare. The play focuses on journalistic integrity, as a former tabloid writer reflects on his career and life. The journalist did whatever it took to build his career – regardless of the cost.

Hoare obviously understands his character and portrays him with suitable arrogance. Above his own station, our protagonist deems himself untouchable. That is until he rubs certain government officials up the wrong way. He and his family soon pay the price. Intertwining black comedy with heartfelt social commentary, this drama also tackles numerous points. Once again, a well-acted play, but one in need of refinement.

Revealing the murkiest aspects of humanity, this double bill succeeds in provoking thought and igniting conversations, but both productions at times feel like blueprints for bigger plays.

Jonathan Marshall
Image: Mark Douet

Make Mine a Double: Tunnels and Press is at Park Theatre from 28^th November until 10^th December 2022. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.