Thief premiered in 2014 at the Brighton Fringe where it won Best Theatrical Performance and continued its success in New York’s Broadway and further performances at the Edinburgh Fringe. Thief is currently in London for three nights, 22nd-24th May at the newest Pub Theatre The Stage Door Theatre, Drury Lane.

Inspired by The Vagabond by Jean Genet. Thief offers a dark and disturbing journey through the life of Sailor played by Lee Fanning. Sailor thrives on danger and getting his next kick in whichever form that takes. His life mantra is simple “Rent, theft, betrayal” in any order the mood or situation takes him.

“Their Weakness is my control” Sailor explains and I believe him. Each encounter offers new excitement as he never knows what will happen or what he will steal from the men involved.

Fanning’s performance is disturbingly brilliant I became invested in his journey from the moment he burst onto the stage. Sailor lays himself open to the audience throughout the 60-minute play. There’s no hiding from his horrific descriptions of the abuse and sexual interactions he meets regularly.

As the story unfolds Sailor offers a small insight into the unconventional childhood he lived/experienced with his Mother, Nell. It’s the closest you get to seeing the hidden and inner feelings of Sailor. However, it’s brief and doesn’t allow you to feel “sorry” for him as Sailor will never allow himself to be anyone’s victim not even his own!

Thief is certainly not a play for the faint-hearted as the disturbing life of Sailor is based on real-life experiences writer Liam Rudden gathered from speaking to people who lived through the worst times of their lives. All these have been crafted and amalgamated into the dialogue of the on-stage Sailor’s life.

For more information about Thief and future productions at The Stage Door Theatre please use the link below.

Five Stars.

Home