The Tailor-Made Man at Stage Door Theatre

Claudio Macor’s 1992 play The Tailor-Made Man, inspired by Kenneth Anger’s book of scandals Hollywood Babylon, has been brought back to the stage by Stage Door Theatre’s new artistic director Robert McWhir. It tells the true story of MGM rising star and golden boy William “Billy” Haines, who quickly rose to fame in the glitzy Hollywood of 1930. His career, sadly, was cut short. Antagonised by the powerful Louis B Mayer, who tried to cover up the actor’s sexuality and his relationship with Jimmie Shields, Haines was subsequently fired and shunned by every studio.

In the end, however, Billy turned things around by becoming an interior designer for the rich and famous, and once again making a name for himself in Hollywood (albeit in a different career path). Lifelong friend Joan Crawford famously described Haines and Shields as “the happiest married couple in Hollywood”.

There are many ways to tell a story. This play does a good job of showcasing the misogyny and homophobia deeply rooted in those environments, as well as the disposability of celebrity status, and how quickly one can be replaced and forgotten, especially when one does not conform. Hugo Pilcher and Dereck Walker shine in their individual roles, respectively Billy Haines and Louis B Mayer, creating some palpable and credible tension when confronting each other. But that tension is still not enough to create momentum.

Despite a brilliant cast, this adaptation suffers from a choice of not taking any risks, as well as too much exposition. It tends to tell more than show, making Shields (Gwithian Evans) the narrator of off-screen events, and does not seem able to keep its promise to uncover secrets and dark truths. The characters, though well-acted, feel somewhat one-dimensional, while the depiction of 1930s Hollywood, from mannerisms and ways of speaking to the music choice, is almost too accurate – it lacks originality and a fresh perspective.   

There are a few tender moments, particularly in the second half, and usually involving the friendship between Haines, Shields and the delightful Marion Davies (Shelley Rivers). Plus, the chemistry between Pilcher and Evans is undeniable.

Overall, The Tailor-Made Man is a commendable effort that shines a light on a lesser-known Hollywood story, even if it falls short of fully realising its potential. The strong performances, incredible costumes and meticulous attention to period detail are highlights, but it could have benefited from a bolder approach to storytelling.

Benedetta Mancusi
Images: Peter Davies

The Tailor-Made Man is at Stage Door Theatre from 9^th May until 31^st July 2024. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.