'The Boys Upstairs' Above The Stag Theatre ****

What transpires when a supposedly heterosexual young man comes into communication with three openly gay men, who assume that he is hiding his true identity? Above The Stag Theatre's current production is the European premiere of Jason Mitchell’s 2009 play, ‘The Boys Upstairs’ was a performance heaving with side-splitting moments, and performed with magnetic performances.

‘The Boys Upstairs’  is set in a Hell's Kitchen apartment, that radiates flamboyancy as it's possessed by aspiring web blogger, Josh, who is seeking out for some journalistic acclaim, and has entered a competition, in the anticipation that is concept of an app can be fabricated. His best friends Seth, teacher and Ashley appear increasingly close with one another. However, when they are introduced to Josh’s new neighbour, Eric, antagonism activates between the two single men to see who may be able to convince Eric of his real sexuality. Over the course of the play, it seems that Josh and Ashley have immense difficulties in maintaining fruitful relationships as the two of them are particularly needy. Whereas, Seth (Stanley Eldridge) is in a passionate relationship, and his frantic to move on with his life and resides with his, as a signal to put to depict progression in their relationship. Josh does not like this plan, as they've been friends since college, and is apprehensive of the changes that may occur; such as Ashley moving into his room. Eric appears to be somewhat intrigued by their sexual openness, but refrains from attempting to learn of his true feelings towards men; apart from when he is on the sofa bed with Ashley after a drunken night out, which means they've had sex. Conversely, at the finale, Eric finally accepts his sexuality freely to Josh.  Mitchell's narrative is extremely hysterical, as you witness the robust kinship of three friends, who know exactly what each of them are like, along with this, the dialogue flows profusely in leaps and bounds.

One found the performances by the company of ‘The Boys Upstairs’ was wonderfully captivating throughout the entire show. Simon Walton is brilliant as the up-and-coming app developer, Josh; especially when we see his machiavellian nature exude when he wants to keep Seth to himself and away from his boyfriend. Joe Leather is charming as the slightly showy, Ashley; especially when he does not even know the name of the men he has been sleeping with during that night, additionally, his vocal work within the characterisation was well conveyed during his moments. Daniel Gracia is splendid as the new neighbour, Eric; chiefly when we see that he is comfortable with liaising with openly gay man, which enables him to explore his true self and hopeful relationship launching with Josh.

Andrew Beckett's direction is delightful here, as he has enabled an audience to observe the New York gay scene, and how friendships have positive and negative factors towards them, and presenting a scenario of self-discovery is interesting to inform audiences of the struggles of coming out. Zoe Hurwitz’s design is dazzling, as you’re  immediately engrossed through Josh, Seth, Ashley and Eric's individual journeys, moreover, the attention to detail within the set was exhilarating, as you could immediately tell that this apartment is owned by a ostentatious person. Overall, one found the experience of ‘The Boys Upstairs’ to be one of such humour and a provocative tale of men understanding their sexual preferences. A definite visit to Above The Stag Theatre within the next month.