Up 'n' Under at Hull Truck Theatre continued By Nicholas Boldock

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The slow-motion segments were clever indeed and popped up on a number of occasions, the last as a replay of Arthur's try in the showdown with the Cobblers Arms. An ambitious technique to use in a small theatre such as Hull Truck, but one which was pulled off seamlessly. The match itself was acted and directed superbly. The concept of trying to recreate a rugby match on a small stage, using only six actors, is a notion too complex for most mortals, but the ingenious solution to the problem (Wheatsheaf strip on the front of the shirts, Cobblers on the back) allowed the actors to play as members of both teams at varying times. Frantic it was, as the actors faced one way then the other, and brilliantly clever to boot. It's worth going just to see the match. You know they've done a good job when you actually want the Wheatsheaf to win - you actually care - and you cheer every point they score (I did). The match result? Well, if you don't already know, I won't tell you.

All in all, a magnificent production from Hull Truck, which once again proves that it is one of Hull's greatest treasures. One complaint though. Whilst I did enjoy the play enormously - in fact I'd rate it as one of the best nights out I've had in an age - it was hard to concentrate whilst continually mopping my brow and wondering whether I was near enough to a first aider to safely pass out. I do appreciate that an intimate auditorium like the one at Hull Truck is going to get a wee bit on the warm side when a packed house is in attendance - but this was ridiculous, and probably dangerous. Please, please, please - fit some better air conditioning. Dead customers don't come back for the matinee. © Nicholas Boldock, 2004.

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