What It Means
Closed 1h 30m
What It Means
61%
61%
(1 Rating)
Positive
0%
Mixed
100%
Negative
0%
Members say
Slow, Indulgent, Thought-provoking, Great acting

About the Show

Richard Cant stars in this exploration of the life of legendary gay writer Merle Miller.

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Critic Reviews (5)

The Stage (UK)
October 10th, 2023

“The play certainly has merit: it is both an important historical record and a reflection of our here and now. But as drama, it’s unsatisfying: when sparks should fly or anger bubble, instead we’re left flat.”
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Time Out London
October 10th, 2023

“Part of this play’s power lies in its timing...As Miller lays into politicians who cynically target gay people to win elections, it’s impossible not to be reminded of the UK government’s transphobic statements in recent weeks. Miller’s appeal to us bridges time and place, not just the gap between stage and stalls.”
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The Guardian (UK)
October 10th, 2023

“...playwright James Corley cleverly unpicks Miller’s landmark essay, remaking an argument into a collage of anecdote and emotion. The lines are searingly memorable but Richard Cant’s superb Merle turns analysis into a churn of fear and fury. A groundbreaking op-ed becomes vital theatre.”
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Everything Theatre (UK)
October 12th, 2023

“ ‘What it Means’ is an important historical contribution about the realities for the LGBT committee in the early 1970s. Cant’s interactions with the audience provide relief from a serious topic, but also allow the audience space to reflect.”
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Theatre Weekly (UK)
October 10th, 2023

“The subject matter is so thoroughly explored, delving into the mind of this brilliant forebear of post-Stonewall gay literature, that these issues can be forgiven. Above all, ’What It Means’ is a momentous testament to queer literary heritage, and a full-hearted statement of our need to continue speaking up.”
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