Cannes, Newcastle University Theatre Society – Sweet Grassmarket

**** (4 stars)

A new piece of writing, Cannes takes a look behind the scenes of the most prestigious and glamorous film festival in the world. A Palme d’Or award-winning writer, Tom, is confined to a hotel room under the watchful eye of the event security, after punching an actor and onetime friend in front of the world’s media. In this confined environment his past relationships are mercilessly picked over and he is forced to confront his own shortcomings.

This is an original rom-com with real charm and guts; the characters are well formed and for the most part, thoughtful directing keeps the action moving in the tiny performance area. Although the plot twists will not come as a major to shock to most audiences, there are enough changes of pace to hold the attention. After a while the central character’s self indulgent word play becomes a little wearing, but even this is done with a sense of knowing and the audiences’ relief is obvious when he is finally instructed: ‘get over yourself!’.

Although this is unquestionably a strong script by student writer Samuel Jefferson, it is still an irritant that the most underdeveloped characters are the women. Claudia is feisty, but a greater explanation of her actions would have given more flesh to the bones. All of the performances are strong and confidently executed. My only regret on this score is the lack of cast list, which means I am unable to give this talented troupe the full individual recognition they deserve.

The one-liners are genuinely funny and the 45 minutes pass quickly.  It’s true that the commentary on Hollywood’s moral apathy is a little forced and there are no real shades of grey here. However, there is a so much to enjoy that the occasional deficiencies in this production are easily overlooked.  This NUTS production suggests that future of British theatre is a bright one.

Sara-Jane McGeachy