Written by: Clare Monnelly
Director: Emily Foran
The joy has departed from Barry’s life and a catalyst, in the unlikely shape of a fox with an unusual glow, sends him spiralling into an emotional nuclear fallout zone. Having reluctantly moved back to his small hometown as a harassed unemployed dad of three, married to the successful but supportive Laura, Barry finds himself retreating into an interior mind space in order to cope with ever-growing stresses. In parallel to the mundanity of his day, his imagination creates scenarios where his rival and nemesis, the alpha businessman Declan, becomes a threat to his remaining certainties: fatherhood and husband to Laura. Barry – played by Aaron Monaghan – is slowly but surely isolating himself from everyone, including those who love him most.
Monnelly’s tightly written short play immerses us in Barry’s mindscape from the start. In a one-man turn both funny and touching, our protagonist moves through life as a stay-at-home dad who is not coping; as a onetime local GAA legend whose starry career was kiboshed by malign forces; and as a heart-broken son who loved his dead mother but struggles with being there for his troubled dad. Monaghan is commanding as Barry, his agile physicality bringing moments of comic slapdash to a role that never descends into sentimentality. As various events cohere to bring us to a climax on the GAA pitch, director Emily Foran ensures the pace never falters and that we are invested in Barry’s survival.
Stuart Robinson’s sound design includes various voiceovers, which add dialogue without being intrusive. Helen Foy’s costume design provides a superhero surprise and adds genuine hilarity to the play. The lighting and stage design work well as background for the simple set but Monaghan is the star here, his presence brings Barry and small-town insecurities to life for the audience. Liven’ Dred Theatre Company have created an enjoyable and immersive theatre experience with Super-Bogger. The play is relatable and affecting and showcases Monaghan’s abilities and physicality as an actor.
Runs Until 4th December 2023.
