Since its premiere in 2013, Duncan Macmillan’s one-person play about depression has gradually become a cult hit. It’s been performed in more than 80 countries and now – finally – makes its West End debut. There’s a starry rotating cast, kicking off with Lenny Henry and also including original performer Jonny Donahoe, as well as Ambika Mod, Sue Perkins and Minnie Driver. Jeremy Herrin directs alongside Macmillan and a posse of leading producers are backing the show.
It all screams smash hit. But there’s something about the scale and downright snazziness of this production that doesn’t quite gel. The setup is simple. It’s about a young boy who, after his mum does “something stupid” when she has acute depression, decides to make a list about all the things that make life worth living. Waffles. Hedgehogs. Falling in love.
