Sniff, Park Theatre Review

Written by Eleanor for Theatre and Tonic.

Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are my own.

Content Warning: This production includes the presentation of drug use, violence, mention of suicide, and gambling.

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We are introduced to Liam and Alex in a grimy men’s bathroom in a typical English pub. Brought together seemingly by coincidence, these two men are worlds away from each other; Liam (played by Gabriel Fogarty-Graveson) is a small-town guy with money troubles who is struggling to connect with his childhood friends. Alex (played by Felix Grainger) is a cravat wearing big city worker who is mustering the courage to propose to his girlfriend. But after striking up a conversation, these men find out they may be connected in ways they did not expect.

This dramatic new comedy play has been written by the two men who play the titular characters, Felix Grainger and Gabriel Fogarty-Graveson, with Direction from Ben Purkiss. Sniff is wonderfully anarchic and funny, but also dark and foreboding. The story explores the idea of preconceived judgements through the use of two characters who seem very different but become eerily similar. The writing kept me on the edge of my seat, and I loved all of the unexpected twists.

Although Sniff centers around two wildly different characters, I think there are aspects of both which people can recognise. There is brilliant chemistry between the two actors. They are expressive and encouraging and created a palpable atmosphere in the theatre.  Gabriel Fogarty-Graveson’s portrayal of Liam was overconfident and boastful in the best way. His line delivery is superb and I was captivated by his performance.  But despite his brash exterior, Gabriel is excellent at showing Liam’s vulnerability and insecurities. Despite Liam’s assertive nature, it is Alex’s dilemma which drives the story. Felix Grainger is an excellent foil for Gabriel. He has a number of comedic and dramatic moments which are brilliantly acted. The way Alex becomes more and more maddened by Liam and increasingly stressed and angered by his personal life really came through. I did feel like Alex’s personality change came a bit early in the plot. If it had all occurred in line with the first time he uses Liam’s drugs, that would have made the later scenes all the more dramatic. 

The plot of Sniff seemingly aims to show that people are more than they appear. Both of these characters have another side to them which is not overtly obvious when they are first introduced. This is mostly done with the use of flashbacks to notable moments in the characters lives, which I found really effective. They were not only helpful in understanding each characters’ actions, but gave them more depth. Although I must say that the strobe lighting heralded the start of each flashback was blinding (so I would take note of this if you have a light sensitivity.) 

As the story unfolded I was on tenterhooks. Sniff lulls you into a false sense of security at the beginning of the plot with the use of funny mundane chatter (I found myself laughing out loud a number of times) which was seemingly harmless. But this then turns on a dime when drugs begin to be introduced. This creates greater chaos, which I very much enjoyed, and also dramatically advances the plot. The whole audience appeared highly engaged for the duration. Without the inclusion of any spoilers, the ending of this show is particularly strong and genuinely surprised me. It was an exceptional way to round off an excellent performance. 

In conclusion, Sniff captivated me with its blend of comedy and drama, strong performances, and unexpected twists. The chemistry between Gabriel Fogarty-Graveson and Felix Grainger made for an excellent theatrical experience.

Sniff is playing at Park Theatre (PARK90) from the 14TH May 2024 –24th May 2024.

Sniff is currently part of a double-bill package at Park Theatre. By booking to see both Sniff and Cold Water (which has also been reviewed by Theatre & Tonic) together, you can get a reduced ticket price. More information is available at the Park Theatre website. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆