Theatre Review: Bankers go bonkers in Roaring Trade
It’s been six years since Steve Thompson’s Roaring Trade had its debut at the Soho Theatre but in 2015, for better or worse, it still feels relevant.
This refreshed revival – new cast, new creatives, new venue, slightly updated script – arrives as rows about tax, bonuses and the economy continue to dominate headlines; and unsurprisingly the play’s key characters are far from endearing.
The four traders we see in Canary Wharf are ruthless, arrogant and hungry for success regardless of who gets screwed over. Frontman Donny (Nick Moran) knows the game inside-out; it’s a race he’s so desperate to be a part of that he’s willing to strip half-naked in his job interview. We’ve all been there.
But beneath the expensive suits and insult-throwing (at times it’s more like Roaring Shade, am I right?) are fatal flaws: PJ (Michael McKell), clearly harbouring an alcohol problem, can already feel his shelf life running out; while new grad Spoon (Timothy George) – so called because of the not unreasonable assumption he’s had a spoiled upbringing – battles daddy issues that leave him desperate to prove himself and upgrade his current crappy flat.
The cast – particularly Moran, McKell and George, plus Lesley Harcourt after a chilly first scene – are all strong, while director Alan Cohen makes great use of the Park Theatre’s roomy main stage; neatly navigating his way in and out of the trading floor via restaurants, living rooms and DLR platforms – even if there is arguably scope for the moments of actual trading to be a tiny bit more lively.
There’s also room for improvement in the digital backdrops: while many are impressive and effective, others look like screen-grabs from mid-90s video games. Canary Wharf is even spelt wrong in one of them.
Still, these are minor criticisms. Roaring Trade is no less relevant or entertaining now compared to six years ago; another strong entry to the Park Theatre’s canon and unlike anything they’ve staged in recent months. Simply put, this show means business.
★★★★
Roaring Trade runs at Park Theatre until October 23.