Clothes Swap – Waterside Arts, Sale

Writer: Liam Mansfield

Director: Nathaniel J Hall

The World Premiere of Liam Mansfield’s play Clothes Swap is also the first in house production at Waterside Arts in Sale.  It is an especially relevant piece to be shown during Pride month since it focuses on a group of LGBTQA+ teenagers.  The research and development process included young people from Trafford and as such the play has a very localised feel although that “local” could be anywhere in the country.

Ash and Den belong to a youth group run by Chris, but in addition to their normal Wednesday night, Chris has organised a ‘Clothes swap’ so the local teenagers can find and exchange clothes at no cost.  Ash and Den are helping set up when Tatum, a relative newcomer to the area, wanders in early. The ebullient Ash chats to them and recognises them from having a YouTube channel he watches.  The event is taking place in a local building which is hired by people for community groups and events.  Unfortunately the clothes swap is at the same time as a weekly meeting for vulnerable women and it’s organiser Val is very limited in her views, in particular regarding the use of the toilet facilities, claiming her members need to feel secure.  After the clothes swap event the issues Val has with the youth group escalate causing stress to Chris and having a major impact on the group as a whole.

David Carpenter’s Ash is beautifully written and skilfully drawn.  The character is 16, flamboyant, confident and impulsive. Carpenter creates this slightly wild teenager, giving voice to the effervescence without losing control.  Naomi Ricci’s Den is much quieter and more serious but still a well rounded character and Ricci, in her professional debut, gives her depth and believability.   Abel Hanson’s Tatum is the most appealing of the characters.  Slightly shy, insecure in many ways and conflict adverse, they are a mediator and a mirror around the other characters even with Val.  Hanson’s portrayal has a sensitivity and gentleness but showing the underlying strength they possess.  As the adults Nicole Keri is excellent as the stressed group leader Chris and Lindsay Eavis’ performance makes even Val a character who can be sympathised with.

Liam Mansfield’s script is sublimely crafted, giving each role a distinct voice while raising issues so relevant to many teenagers, especially those in the LGBTQA+ community. Director Nathaniel J Hall brings together the script and actors in one wonderfully cohesive production.

Clothes Swap while tackling important issues doesn’t preach, instead it creates an environment where dealing with these issues is simply part of the everyday needs of the youth involved.  This is important not only for the teenagers but also the adults who need to understand and support them.  Pride month or not, this is a play that deserves to get out there and raise more awareness of the subject.

Runs until Saturday 6th June