In their debut production, I F*cking Love F*cking Someone I F*cking Hate, Foundations, a regional community of creatives, present a new dark comedy play written (and performed) by Hannah Mullen, starring a stellar ensemble and visionary direction from Eliza Beth Stevens.

In this fresh and intriguing concept, IFLFSIFH takes the audience on a journey of the highs and lows of modern love, exploring identity, connection and bisexuality- something not always prominent on stage, unless used as a tick box, or for shock factor in this modern world. In their writing, Mullen has five distinct characters, each with their own turmoil but ultimately yearning for connection.

It’s Friday night, Charlie (Mullen) is in the mood to f*ck, so she sends a text to one of her lovers but, after an accidental group text, a box of secrets- usually kept locked and hidden in plain sight- explodes in 55 minutes of hilarity, chaos and absolute absurdity- occasionally to the point of being nonsensical.

Mullen’s dry delivery is hysterical, particularly against the over-the-top, almost caricatures of boyfriend, Tom (Tom Donoghue) and Tom’s friend, Dave (Neil Stavely). With a simple facial expression, Mullen captivates the audience, aided by the live, original orchestrations, which are perfectly timed to build suspense and levity.

Donoghue and Stavely ham up the physical comedy, and even when in the shadows, maintain the slapstick that keeps the audience entertained no matter where your eyes land- I even spent five minutes having my legs hugged, talk about immersion.

Freddie, played by the always delightful, Lucy Eve Mann, is the more mature, grounding character who knows who she is and what she wants; a stark contrast to Holly (Emma Nielsen), described as a bulldozer of a golden retriever, who is naively swept away in the other characters’ agendas.

Under Stevens’ strong direction, the vision is clear and will only be amplified on an increased budget to enhance the set. However, given this was a one-night affair in Manchester, the team have created a well-constructed piece, utilising the space and tech to bring a night of provocative theatre that will soar with a bit of “foreplay” before continuing on the next step of its journey.

Further information and booking details for future performances can be found here.

Tickets received in exchange for an honest review. #AD