Theatre review: Pictures On The Air

PICTURES ON THE AIR
***
SWEET TEVIOT PLACE (VENUE 295)

THERE are some pertinent observations at the heart of this new play that sets out to juxtapose youthful vivacity with cynicism in old age. And the writer Toby Lloyd has an affinity for his subject matter and an inherent understanding of his characters.

Fifteen-year-old Tom (Joe Thomas) and head boy Jack (Alex Sycamore) are disillusioned and angsty in a way only teenagers can be. Head teacher Mr Richards (Robert Baker-Glenn) is having a crisis, watching his work and love life disintegrate around him. When another student attempts suicide the three characters are thrown together in a way that leads to a subtle comparison between their attitudes.

The themes and characters' contrasting ideologies could be made stronger, as there's a danger that these get lost, causing the play to lose pace and lack an overriding perspective. Director Francis Lloyd's unimaginative staging doesn't help. However, Toby Lloyd is a writer with potential.

• Until 25 August. Today 2pm