Runs until Saturday, May 26
SUE Shields, whose son has Downs Syndrome, had no thought of becoming a playwright when she sent amusing text messages about their life to Hilary Davis, a creative producer with Myrtle Theatre company.
Persuasion from Hilary and Myrtle director Heather Williams encouraged Sue to write a moving, delightful play, Up Down Boy, which provides an enthralling hour for audiences.
The action evolves in the bedroom of Matty, a 19-year-old with Downs (hence the title) who is about to go off to college to learn how to develop more social skills and a degree of independence. Nathan Bessell, as Matty, and Heather Williams, as his mum Odette, are both brilliant.
An extra dimension is provided by hugely entertaining animation (by Evil Genius), which reflects Matty's personal thoughts and aspirations, on a big screen which is the backdrop of the set.
The play brims with humour, charm and deep affection. Catch it if you can!
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