Baby Jesus Freak, Lass O’Gowrie, Manchester

Writer: Ian Winterton

Director: Matt Gould

Reviewer: Clare Howdon

The Public Reviews Rating:

‘Baby Jesus Freak’ is the latest offering by writer Ian Winterton, and opens at the funeral of Matt and Daniel’s mother, where a sermon is being delivered by Pastor John (Ben Rigby). A few too many drinks at the wake steers the sibling’s evenings off into two very different directions. Whilst Atheist Matt (Richard Hand) is visited by an apparition named Ruth (Gemma F Flannery) claiming to be his unborn niece, Born-Again Christian Daniel (Adam Lowe) accidentally sleeps with his brother’s ex girlfriend Lauren (Natalie Husdan). Trying desperately to fight off the religious guilt of his promiscuous behaviour, Daniel throws himself wholeheartedly into a relationship with fellow believer Bethany (Claire Dean). However when Lauren phones with the unwelcome and unexpected news that she is pregnant, Daniel’s life is thrown into disarray.

‘Baby Jesus Freak’ is ultimately tackling the issue of abortion and the age old argument of Pro Life verses Pro Choice. Whilst the topic of this play is certainly nothing new, Ian Winterton’s fresh and brutally honest approach coupled with Matt Gould’s frank direction makes this piece feel modern and original, whilst always avoiding the fatal pitfall of becoming too preachy or emotive.

The Lass O’Gowrie is a perfect venue for this dialogue-driven play and there are some lovely performances and devices utilised, notably in the use of niece Ruth, a role which is delivered beautifully and effortlessly by Gemma F Flannery. Equally effective is the subtle performance given by Richard Hand of a tortured mind whose atheistic tendencies are being questioned by his visions and there are some delightfully tender moments between uncle and niece. Claire Dean also gives a stand-out performance as pious American Bethany providing some much needed humour to what is a rather dour and contentious subject matter.

The tagline of ‘For Christ’s Sake’ on ‘Baby Jesus Freak’s ‘publicity makes the play sound controversial which in a way is true. However the standard of the writing, direction and performances produce, thankfully, a great deal more than this. ‘Baby Jesus Freak’ is a well – measured and thought provoking piece allowing audience members to form their own opinions on the character’s beliefs and choices, and this is one of the plays biggest strengths.