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Joe Locke Wins Praise in ‘Clarkston’ as West End Reviews Split on Substance and Cost

The Trafalgar Theatre run features minimalist staging with striking lighting through 22 November.

Overview

  • CityAM awards five stars and hails Locke’s stage presence alongside Ruaridh Mollica’s strong turn and their onstage chemistry.
  • The Times gives three stars, describes the play as slight, and questions top stalls pricing around £100 while flagging £25–£39 onstage seats as good value.
  • Sophie Melville draws notice as Trisha, a reformed meth addict whose strained relationship with her son adds emotional charge.
  • Director Jack Serio emphasizes pared-back staging, with Stacey Derosier’s lighting transporting scenes and keeping the focus on performances.
  • Samuel D. Hunter’s script explores class, identity and mortality, with Jake’s Huntington’s diagnosis informing the character’s urgency.