Award-winning writer Paul T. Davies is set to premiere his powerful new play Love Is A Bruise at the Mercury Studio this weekend as part of the Colchester Fringe Festival.
The production, running from October 24-29, brings together three men from vastly different worlds in one explosive encounter.
Dougie is an out and proud "gay veteran" of activism and protest. Nick is a straight military veteran who longs for simpler times.
Ray simply wants comfort and connection. But a devastating event forces these three men to confront each other -- and their own demons.
The play's origins are deeply rooted in Colchester's theatre community. Following workshops about masculinity held at the Mercury Theatre last year, Davies began developing the script, eventually casting two men he met in those sessions -- Chris Austin and Kevin "Skip" Barnett -- as Nick and Ray.
(Image: Public)
"I hardly ever see gay characters of my age on stage or screen," explains Davies in an interview with Keep Colchester Cool, who also performs in the production.
"Dougie says his sense of humour is his suit of armour, and that's where he and I mesh together."
The play tackles toxic masculinity, identity, and the ways men communicate love and vulnerability, balancing dark themes with humour.
Davies promises "the most menacing game of I Spy you will ever see" alongside moments that will shift audience sympathies throughout.
Co-directed by Wendy Smith and Nathanial Drury, the production emerged through intense collaboration. Davies credits the rehearsal process with creating fully-rounded characters whose connections -- and secrets -- unfold as the story progresses.
As Theatre Editor of Keep Colchester Cool and a champion of local arts, Davies expresses pride in premiering at the Fringe. "
I want our allies and straight people to see it," he says. "Experience theatre that challenges you, talk about it, and go away thinking about other lives different to yours."
The production comes from double Colchester Fringe award-winner Davies and Fringe award-winning 3 Wishes Theatre.
Audiences should note the show contains very strong language, descriptions of violence, and references to Cilla Black.
Tickets are available through Mercury Theatre Box Office.