Play: Stitches

Stitches, at the Hope Theatre, Islington

This unusual and witty play tells the life story of Chloe through the eyes of her teddy bear, first placed in her cot with a red bow around his head.

While moving, this is not a cute, schmaltzy story. Much of the humour is provided by the bear's combative and sweary attitude - especially when he feels someone is doing Chloe wrong.

Jonathan Blakeley, who wrote the play, puts in an engaging and energetic performance as the bear, whether he is being slung around by a child or spun within an alarming washing machine. Projected images, sound and lighting effects fill the space.

The bear knows all too well his role was was chosen for her - he recalls her grandmother in the toy shop - and is utterly loyal.

As Chloe grows up, the teddy bear is her constant companion, relishing the comfort he provides as her as she squeezes his ear.

Spending much of his time in her bedroom, the bear has an intimate view of Chloe's life, from childhood to university and everything in between. You get the impression that Blakeley has drawn on female friends' experiences.

As her parents argue, Chloe and her brother find peace in a church, with soft lights from stained windows. The saints in this church appear all male. "Why are there no girl saints?" wonders Chloe. "Cause they ain't found you yet," the bear says.

As she gets older and moves to university, she grows out of needing her soft toy - much to the bear's distress.

There is then a long gap in Chloe's story as the bear is packed away - he does not see most of her adult life, so neither do we. It picks up when he is taken out of storage, repaired and washed again - this gently time by hand - and reunited with her in a care home,

This part illustrates the devastating effects dementia can have a on both a person and those close to them.

The bear is baffled and distressed as he urges to Chloe to answer simple questions of the care home staff. He is loyal to the end, providing comfort in her final days and and looking to an afterlife.

Writer/actor: Jonathan Blakeley
Director: Samantha Pears
Producer: Sarah Lawrie
Designer: Constance Villemot
Lighting designer: Mattis Larsen
Sound designer: Hattie North

The Hope Theatre, Islington, 207 Upper St, London N1 1RL - until Saturday 9 March 2024 - Age: 18+

For more information see: www.thehopetheatre.com/productions/stitches/