Holes At The Little Theatre Leicester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Sheridan Brown
Last night I attended the opening night of Holes, written by Tom Basden, and directed by Ed Turner, at The Little Theatre in Leicester. Performed by Leicester Drama Society the play promised to be a razor sharp, fast-paced and hilarious comedy. It was certainly that, but with a darker side, as well.
I travelled to Leicester by train and the theatre was an easy seven minute stroll away. It was very easy to find and I noticed there was a large car park just across the road. Very convenient, if public transport isn’t for you.
The Little Theatre, operated by Leicester Drama Society, enjoys visits from more than 30,000 people a year. As well as a main auditorium and studio spaces, it offers opportunities for education and theatrical development in all areas of theatre production.
As I arrived, the foyer staff were incredibly helpful and attentive. There was a lovely, reasonably priced bar area for interval drinks. This production was being performed in the tiny but perfectly formed Haywood Studio. A most helpful gentleman, in full black tie, showed me to my seat, a lovely touch! The Studio, with only 30 seats, is a very intimate space, and everyone gets a great view of the performance area and, on the front row, you can almost feel you are part of the performance space!
As I settled into my seat I took in the stage. The set was minimal. Flooring that gave the hint of a beach with three characters, already positioned in different attitudes. I had read previously that the play was about the only four survivors of a plane crash on a deserted island, I was intrigued as to how their stories would play out …
Holes is the second production directed by ‘director in development’ Ed Turner. As part of the New Director Development Programme, Turner has used this production to demonstrate his skill in bringing together comedic action with some challenging viewpoints and topics. I laughed out loud on many occasions, but these were juxtaposed with moments where I felt deeply uncomfortable. It is astonishing to think that a performance of this quality was put together, by amateur performers, in only five weeks!
Of course, every great director needs great actors to work with. And I felt the four parts of the play were very well cast. The interactions between Ian, played by Dan Rowberry and Marie, played by Molly Georgina were very funny and the comic timing of both was excellent. Dan’s bombastic and self-obsessed flummery is easily matched by the shallow, sexually frustrated wantonness of Marie. Counterposed with the sometimes, over-the-top comedic value of this duo, was the understated character of 16-year-old Erin, played by Phoenix Brooks-Vargas. Her steady, grounded approach to the role added the perfect foil in the first Act. But in the second act her role took on a more uncomfortable dramatic importance. This is Brooks-Vargas’ first ‘main house’ production and I felt she really rose to the challenge of the play. But for me, the stand out performance of the show was the raw, say-it-as-you-see-it energy of Gus, played by Thomas Bates. Bates’ interactions with all the other characters was nuanced and excellent, and he showed real emotional range and acting talent. I was astonished to read that this was only his second production! Watch this space, I would say!
Whilst set and staging were simple, effective use of props really helped moved the action along. I loved the increasingly outlandish costume (supposedly gleaned from dead fellow-passengers’ suitcases). This was hilarious – but added a weird counter to some of the darker moments of the play. Effective use of lighting (Tim Neville) – especially towards the end of Act 2 really helped the audience to imagine a multi-dimensional space! This was a particularly powerful scene.
This is the first amateur theatrical production I have seen, and my first visit to The Little Theatre. I was very impressed by the professionalism of everyone involved, performers, back-stage and front of house. What a lovely place this is to bring on new talent and provide a space for that talent to shine! Bravo!
Rating: 5/5
Dates: 5th November – 8th November, 2025
Tickets: £12 Wheelchair and carer seating is available.
Remaining shows are bookable here: www.thelittletheatre.co.uk