Review: Breaking the Castle at The Pleasance, London

Wednesday, 18th October 2023 at The Pleasance, London

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Reviewer: Charlotte Dawes

Written and performed by Peter Cook, Breaking the Castle shines a light on the often-misunderstood complexities of mental health and addiction. The moving piece, which had a critically acclaimed Fringe run, is inspired by Cook’s own extraordinary life experiences.

We follow the fictionalised protagonist David Smith, a struggling actor, as he navigates his precarity, set against a backdrop of substance abuse and deteriorating mental health, both stemming from past traumas. We observe how various people in David’s life, whether it be his parents or casting agents, unconsciously add to his anguish and feeling of unworthiness. An opportunity to alter the course of his life comes in the form of a rehabilitation clinic in Thailand. David eventually comes to accept that positive change will only be achieved via a commitment to confront his deeply buried traumas.

Cook skilfully traverses numerous characters at pace, ably moving the story forward and keeping the audience captivated. The simple staging, littered with clothes, empty cans and takeaway cartons aided Cook’s characterisation, but did not distract from the powerful performance.

The authenticity in Cook’s work is evident in both his performance and writing. The line “no-one chooses to become an addict” really encourages the audience to challenge how they view addiction. Beyond the overarching theme of empathy, class factors in recovery are exposed by Cook who in no uncertain terms tells us Rehab in Thailand saved his life. Of course, such luxuries are not afforded to all who fall on hard times.

This is an important piece of theatre which finely balances despair with hope and humour. Cook’s performance is spectacular, which seems somewhat ironic given he depicts a struggling actor. You will leave the theatre reflecting on how you see the world and the people who may be struggling within it.

Breaking the Castle has completed its run at The Pleasance, London and is set to play at the Old Red Lion Theatre, London 7-11 November 2023 – more information and tickets can be found here.