Writer: James Corley
Director: Harry Mackrill
What It Means, running throughout this month at Wilton’s Music Hall, is the kind of cultural moment people will boast about having been in the room for. The piece takes its title from What It Means To Be A Homosexual, a powerful essay penned by respected author Merle Miller in response to an article by Joseph Epstein which all but called for queer genocide. With this pivotal moment of LGBTQ+ history as its backbone, this production is equally enlightening as it is inspiring.
James Corley skilfully navigates the historical and personal context which led to Miller’s courageous writing and what makes Corley’s presentation of Miller so compelling is the honest way he showcases his flawed humanity. Though Miller is remembered now as a pioneer of LGBTQ+ visibility, he came out late in life and rarely spoke of his sexuality in advance of the essay. An opening scene in which the character of Miller berates the riotous Gay Liberation Day March sets him up to be an irritable, introverted figure hardly capable of inspiring such change.
What It Means should not be mistaken for a comedy play. However, Corley writes with a wit which consistently entertains and often warrants theatre-wide laughter. Richard Cant’s performance as Miller lends itself the grounded style of the piece, never playing moments for effect or forcing humour; his dry delivery is effortless.
Where there is slightly less harmony, however, is the execution of the multi-rolling Corley has woven throughout his narrative. Elaborate physical or vocal changes would, perhaps, feel jarring within the naturalistic atmosphere of Cant’s nuanced performance, yet distinguishing his characters sometimes requires more concentration than is comfortable for the audience.
As Miller’s story seems to be reaching its final wind, Cayvan Coates as the unnamed Boy From Pittsburgh breathes new life into the production. Where Cant is calm and controlled, Coates is erratic and emotional; energising the space for the final act.
What It Means spotlights a game-changing demonstration of LGBTQ+ pride which remains relevant today as tensions rise in the fight for progress. Audiences would be wise to grab tickets for this impressive production before word-of-mouth rewards it with a deserved sell-out run.
Runs until 28 October 2023