THEATRE REVIEW: Odd Shaped Balls

<p>Homophobia in sport is a topical issue at the moment. High profile coming out stories have featured in the media. What if you hadn’t chosen to come out and were instead outed very publicly in the national media by an ex? Even more bewildering, what if you hadn’t even come to terms with your own sexuality yet? Add to that, living and working in a very male dominated environment and the whole scenario garners a nightmarish quality.</p> <p>By <a href="http://www.thegayuk.com/chrisbridges">Chris Bridges</a> | 12th October 2014</p><p>★ ★ ★ ★</p><p></p><p> </p><p><img src="http://www.thegayuk.com/communities/8/004/009/928/388/images/4615032648.jpg" width="461" height="307" alt="Odd Shaped Balls" title="Odd Shaped Balls"/></p> <p></p><p>This one-man show is a very moving and raw depiction of rising rugby star, James Hall, trying to face these issues in the macho and homophobic world of professional rugby. The play is genuinely moving but also comical as naïve and far from media savvy James tries to navigate a traumatic minefield and come out of it with dignity and self-respect intact. Fresh from triumphant runs in Edinburgh and London, the play is now set to tour. </p><p></p><p> </p><p><img src="http://www.thegayuk.com/communities/8/004/009/928/388/images/4615032651.jpg" width="460" height="690" alt="Odd Shaped Balls" title="Odd Shaped Balls"/></p> <p></p><p>Playwright Richard D Sheridan has penned a convincing and articulate script and this is more than ably interpreted by his brother Chris who gives a sterling performance as the startled man, facing up to the pressure of becoming an ‘out’ sports star as well as playing the supporting characters in the tale. This is much more than just a monologue about an issue but is actually a cleverly written, funny and well-acted piece exploring frailty and how easily the world can shift under your feet, leaving you coping with the aftermath. Versatile lighting and intimate venue spaces give the piece a raw and intense edge. </p><p></p><p>The play is well worth seeing and definitely entertains and provokes thought. Catch it next month while you can. </p><p></p><p>Upcoming dates:</p><p>16th October - Lakeside Theatre, Colchester: </p><p>12th,13th,15th November - Otherplace at Bar Broadway, Brighton.</p><p>17th November - The LOST Theatre, London.</p><p></p><p> </p><p> </p>