All of human life is here - Two at the Royal Exchange (From Northwich Guardian)

All of human life is here - Two at the Royal Exchange

10:28am Wednesday 25th January 2012 in Theatre & arts By Rick Bowen

TWO is a remarkable piece of theatre.

Members of the audience spend a matter of minutes with the characters who frequent the nameless northern pub and yet they make a lasting impression on us.

That’s some achievement, but then again, Jim Cartwright is some writer and if any play deserves the plaudit “modern day classic”, it’s this one.

Which is why I rubbed my hands in delight when I found out the Royal Exchange Theatre was putting on Two.

Justin Moorhouse and Victoria Elliott are versatility personified, playing roles that range from lonely old people to a constantly bickering landlord and landlady. As the publicans, who are unnamed, they’re nursing the scars of a family tragedy that forms the moving climax of a brilliant play.

Moorhouse is a natural when it comes to comedy - just check out his performance as ladies man Moth - but he’s equally at home with nasty roles. I refer to his portrayal of Roy, who subjects his terrified girlfriend to physical and psychological abuse.

Equally impressive is the way the duo re-create the unique atmosphere of this great British institution and there isn’t a pint pot or a bag of crisps in sight.

If you’ve never set foot in a theatre, Two, a play packed with characters we can all relate to, is sure to give you the bug. This play has everything.

* Until February 25. The box office is on 0161 833 9833. Star rating - *****