Plastic Figurines at The Lowry Manchester Review
Plastic Figurines
The Lowry, Manchester
6-7 May 2015
Reviewed by Debbie Tasker
Last night I was asked to review this new play, Plastic Figurines, presented by Box of Tricks and written by Ella Carmen Greenhill.
This two hander show was performed in the intimate Studio at The Lowry in Salford Quays, Manchester which is the perfect setting for just this type of play.
Mikey has autism and looks at the world differently from the rest of us. Rosie, his sister, has had to return from living in Edinburgh after their mum is diagnosed with leukaemia so she can take over responsibility of Mikey.
Although the narrative is completely fictional Plastic Figurines draws on Ella Carmen Greenhill’s own experiences of living with a family member on the Autistic spectrum. Jamie Samuel as Michael/Mikey gives an exceptionally heart-warming performance of a young man about to turn 18 with a very individual outlook on just about everything. Remmie Miller is Rosie oozes love for her brother but there are pangs of resentment and frustration bubbling below the surface as she comes to terms with their mum’s death. A wide range of emotions are explored as is the sibling bond between the siblings in the 70 minutes they are on stage.
Most of the scenes are set in a hospital waiting room, with mum who we never see in the room behind.
In my opinion this is a powerful play that you can’t help but be moved by. The darkness of the main subject is balanced out with the humour of Mikey’s straight talking and regimented ways -the chips CANNOT go next to the peas he informs the cafe much to their despair! Both characters are very likeable and draw you into their lives with ease.
I loved Plastic Figurines and wouldn’t hesitate recommending to others.
A well-deserved 5 out of 5.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £10 to £12.
Plastic Figurines is at The Lowry until 7 May 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0843 208 6000.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester, M50 3AZ | 0843 208 6000
