Review of ‘Frank and Percy’: “Love is like a butterfly”

Ian McKellen and Roger Allam star in this new romantic play currently running in London after touring around the UK. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show, to let us know if this love story is an idea he’s married to.

Being happy is not a crime. How many times have we found ourselves in that position? Sacrificing our own well-being for the sake of something (or someone) that doesn’t care about us in the first place. That uncomfortable feeling has never been a stranger to the gay community – too often told we’ve gone too far for simply wanting to live our lives just like anybody else does: fully. You may lose family, you may lose friends (perhaps they never were none of those), but you should never lose who you are – even if you learn that lesson at the very end.

The Other Palace has left the poms and murderous vibes of Westerburg High for the calmness and romantic charm (as long as you don’t go to the ponds) of London’s Hampstead Heath. Written by Ben Weatherill, Frank and Percy is a simple tale of two simple men (despite their own peculiarities), who unexpectedly fall for the purest, most enduring emotion a person can experiment: love.

Directed by Sean Mathias, the play explores their relationship as it gradually evolves from a casual friendship while walking their dogs in the park to a deeper bond that will make them reunite with feelings they thought forever gone. Presented with a realistic style, as their sentiments take their time to shape up, the piece is regaled with several enchanting moments – going through the usual ups and downs that any couple (regardless of age or background) is bound to face.

With a second act far more elaborate and dynamic than the first one, it’s inevitable to acknowledge some flaws in the pacing. It’s true, however, that the way the characters are devised calls for a slower rhythm as their connection progresses. But perhaps a much better approach would have been not to go for a linear narration – thus boosting both the show’s tempo and interest. Nonetheless, the frankness of the plotline allows the work to still get attached to its audience to some level. And though some snippets could benefit from some restructuring, some others manage to stay in our hearts as a real memory.

It’s fairly hard to say anything about the two legends that were standing onstage – especially when one of them has done such a special collaboration with this magazine (watch it here!). And it hasn’t anything to do with starstruck effect (I think I was the only critic that didn’t take a selfie last night… can’t stand my fans), but basically because you already know what to expect. Both Ian McKellen and Roger Allam deliver their parts with warmth, presence and effortless naturality – and though there’s some distance between their portrayals which never seems to completely fade away (maybe, though, a requirement for this recount), the tandem they build on the boards is still haunting enough to be worth a watch.

A story of struggle for the pursue of personal fulfillment, Frank and Percy is an inviting, sweet account of everyday people. Just like the boy next door, it may not have the elements to make it revolutionary, but holds enough appeal to grasp your attention and probably ensure at least an enjoyable journey. And when it comes to love, what else do you actually need?

All pictures credit to Jack Merriman.

Frank and Percy plays at London’s The Other Palace until 17 December. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara