Past Tents Review

Past Tents Review

1st – 12th October 2024

We are introduced to a happy camper who we learn goes by the name of Justin (played by David J. Keogh). His outfit is garish and the campsite appears odd. After some introductory script, we then cut to a video being screened on a wall to the left of the set. A man drives in his car (Alan, played by Seth Jones) leaving a message on his estranged wife’s answer phone. He is distressed and disturbed and ends up on the campsite worse for wear. Needing a bed for the night, employee of the month Virgil (Mark Keegan), complete with milk bottle glasses, comedy apron and Reception bell, shows up and books him onto the site. 

“…the premise is emotive, very personal to the writer, and an important discussion to be had around male mental health”

The next 80 minutes comprise Alan and Justin discussing their families and their importance; there are scenes involving sheep excrement, tents, sleeping bags, drugs, a dictaphone, Alan’s depressed state, and there are some intended comedy moments when Virgil enters the scenes. Sadly, however, the majority of the play did not deliver and the humour fell flat. A few of the scenes were so gross, embarrassing and sexualised they were downright uncomfortable although I’m sure they will appeal to some. The script was intentionally silly for the most part, and this had its place, but there was no progress until the very end of the play, until the last 10 minutes which were superb. Heartfelt conversations between the characters and a very clever twist at the end that we did not see coming, acted sensitively and beautifully. It’s a shame that this writing and performance did not extend to the duration, as the premise is emotive, very personal to the writer, and an important discussion to be had around male mental health.

Past Tents was written by David J. Keogh, and runs at Golden Goose Theatre until 12th October. 

Rhea Shepherd

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