An all-nude play is a clever idea – and not because it guarantees you coverage and foyer conversation, though it does both. And not because butts and bits are easy comedy – though they can be, and in Naturism they often are. But a nude cast does something far more important: it gets the audience onside, and quickly. Watching humans be nude under spotlights in front of a crowd feels vulnerable, and as an audience member it instantly engenders a sense of empathy. I’m squishy too! My textiled body commends your courage, naked actor!
Director Declan Greene knows how to work this. His production of Ang Collins’ play is quick to charm and disarm, with an opening sequence that winks at the play’s gimmick: a montage of images in which individual characters tease a nude reveal by strategically covering key bits with fruit and flowers. Two minutes in, and the mood in the theatre is raucous and appreciative. Applause and laughter. We’re in this together.
