Hive North is renowned for their focus on LGBTQ+ theatre, aiming to create dynamic and thought-provoking productions, and their latest adaptation of The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me, directed by Adam Zane, does just that- with a charismatic performance, captivating direction and crucial story to be told. 

Upon entering Hope Mill Theatre, the sparse, fragmented set design from Dick Longdin, which, although a stark contrast from previous works in aesthetic, takes on a silent character of its own while still packing punch in his attention to detail. Highlighted by David Clare’s lighting design, an inverted pink triangle, the symbol used in Nazi Germany to identify the ‘lowest of the low’, homosexuals. The symbol was later reclaimed by the queer community as a sign of protest and although life has changed dramatically since these bygone eras, the persecution and stigmas represented in this production are still rampant today. 

The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me is a one-man, semi-autobiographical play by David Drake, made up of a series of vignettes and monologues which takes the audience from a child’s unfiltered and dewy-eyed perspective through the AIDS Crisis and into adulthood. 

Gabriel Clark gives a committed, powerful and well-constructed performance, taking on each persona with ease and gusto. Even in parts of the play where the book becomes slightly repetitive, Clark maintains his focus and keeps all eyes on him; particularly thriving in the subtle comedic moments and higher-impact, emotionally-charged scenes.

Although the aforementioned book can become slightly cumbersome, Zane keeps the pacing intact throughout with Hannah Bracegirdle’s sound design assisting the fluidity; though one scene, 12” Single, does stay a little longer than perhaps necessary, the payoff is worth the journey to get there. It must be said, however, the fleeting moments that my attention waned, gave me the opportunity to watch the audience- particularly the older generation who lived these experiences- and that in itself is worth the ticket price alone. So, Act Up, book a ticket and support this important piece of queer theatre because the battle is nowhere near won. 

The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me continues at Hope Mill Theatre until Saturday 14^th February before transferring to Seven Dials Playhouse in London from Tuesday 17^th February to Sunday 1^st March. Further information and booking details can be found here.  

Tickets received in exchange for a review. #AD

Photography by Dawn Kilner.