REVIEW By Steve Cooke
CRUISE is a stunning, funny, one-man masterpiece from Jack Holden set in 1980s Soho with an uplifting soundtrack from John Patrick Elliott - a musical celebration of queer culture.
Fresh from London’s West End and garnering an Olivier Award nomination for Best New Play, this production at HOME is its regional premiere.
The story follows what should have been Michael Spencer’s last night on Earth. In 1984 he is diagnosed with HIV, and told he’ll have at most four years left to live. Under this death sentence Michael and his partner, Dave, put their house on the market, sell the car then spend everything they have to go out with a bang. Dave dies two years later and Michael, immerses himself in a world of drink and drugs.
The last night of his four-year countdown arrives, 29 February 1988, and he heads into Soho wearing his favourite jacket, says goodbye to familiar faces and places, and says yes to everything and everyone. Then, with everything spent and tied up perfectly…Michael survives.
This performance at HOME is a rollercoaster of emotions - a searingly honest, poetically written and beautifully performed one-handed tribute to AIDS veterans.
Cruise at HOME Theatre 1 Until Sat 12 Aug
Running time: 1hr 40mins (no interval)
Suitable for 16yrs+
This production contains smoking, smoke, and haze.
There are adult themes throughout this production including references to self-harm.
Tickets from £12
Box Office 0161 200 1500
Restaurant 0161 212 3500
2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester
Cast
Jack Holden, Writer & Performer, John Patrick Elliott, Composer, Performer & Sound Design
Creative Team
Bronagh Lagan, Director, Nik Corrall Set & Costume Designer, Stufish Entertainment Architects
Set & Projections Design, Prema Mehta, Lighting Designer, Max Pappenheim, Co-Sound Designer
Sarah Golding, Movement Director, Aria Entertainment, Producer
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