A-Hole & Propel x Dibby Theatre, performed at Home MCR as part of the Push festival on 9th February 2025, offered a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant world of new work theatre. This showcase, reminiscent of the Loud Cabaret at the Met Theatre Bury produced by Dibby Theatre, presented three distinct pieces, each with its own unique flavour.
The evening began with “A-Hole,” a new project by Nathaniel J Hall. Nathaniel’s work explores relationships with, as the title suggests, a rather intimate body part. It’s a bold title, and the piece itself felt very much like a work in progress, which is entirely understandable and part of the excitement of seeing new theatre. As Nathaniel explained, it charts his journey to self-acceptance, building on themes explored in his previous shows, “First Time” and “Toxic.” This performance offered a raw and honest exploration of societal shame and its impact, particularly for gay and bisexual men.
Next up was Holly Redford-Jones with a condensed version of her show, “I Was Dancing in the Lesbian Bar.” This cabaret performance cleverly combined Holly’s passions for music, comedy, and, of course, lesbians. It was a sonic love letter to lesbian bars of the past, present, and future, asking important questions about community and identity. The pacing was excellent, and the dance sequence provided a brilliant change of pace.
Finally, King Navassa took to the stage with “Pop, Soul & Glitter.” Having seen Navassa perform before at Loud Cabaret, I knew we were in for a treat. His soulful celebration blended timeless classics and fresh sounds, showcasing his masterful voice. The energy was infectious, culminating in a joyous stage invasion that brought the entire audience together.
The staging for all three performances was simple, often utilising a projection screen. The audience was seated on the stage itself, which created an intimate atmosphere, particularly effective during King Navassa’s interactive finale.
Overall, the vision for this showcase clearly draws inspiration from the Loud Cabaret events, highlighting Manchester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ creative community. It provides a valuable platform for artists to share their work, whether it’s a fully realised show or a piece in its early stages of development.
Stand Out Moment
A standout moment for me was Holly’s dance scene, which was cleverly choreographed and performed. King Navassa’s stage invasion was another highlight, creating a real sense of connection between performer and audience.
The overall atmosphere was one of support and encouragement, a safe space for artists to experiment and explore. This sense of camaraderie was palpable, reflecting the close-knit nature of the community.
One of the strengths of the evening was the sheer versatility of the performers and their willingness to share new material. The production was well thought out, and the obvious camaraderie between the performers added to the overall enjoyment. It was a privilege to witness these artists sharing their stories and their talents.
