By Helen Sullivan

Shape of Things could be seen as a meet cute: boy meets girl in an art gallery where boy works and sparks an awkward conversation with underlying romantic tension. The filmed revival of the Neil LaBute’s play explores human nature and what we are willing to do for others. This production opened in the summer for a limited run and has now released a pro shot of the critically acclaimed play now available to be viewed in the UK and Europe. I was granted early access and found the work to be timely in today’s social-media dominated culture where appearance and reality are often blurred. 

The Shape of Things follows the relationship between Evelyn and Adam and how the former changes the latter. Evelyn meets Adam at the museum where the latter works and not long after, Adam begins to change his physical appearance from his clothes and glasses to even plastic surgery and isolates from his engaged friends, Phillip and Jenny. Throughout the play, you can see signs of Evelyn’s manipulation but that does not mean the reveal as to why is any less shocking. 

The production is led by Bridgerton star, Luke Newton and Amber Anderson, who makes her stage debut with a tour de force performance. Anderson is enigmatic and makes a logical case for her character’s actions while also showing no guilt or remorse. Newton is charming as an English lit major whose romantic inexperience fuels his desire to please Evelyn. He also shows an edgier side when he confronts her at the end. The two have clear chemistry, making the dynamic and Adam’s actions for her more believable. 

The play shares commentary on today’s world consumed with social media and influencers. It is set in the late 90’s pre-Instagram but its themes are all too current. The focus on appearance and unattainable standards have only expanded from print to the internet. When Adam changes his appearance, is it solely because of Evelyn’s suggestions or would he have thought about doing it himself? He becomes more confident and assertive as he changes his clothes and ditches his glasses for contacts. The story also provides important insights on relationships and how one can find themselves wanting to please the other person. Evelyn seemingly enjoys controlling Adam and molding him into her work of art. The simple staging appears like an art installation, further emphasized by the final reveal, and clues the audience in on Evelyn’s true intentions. 

The Shape of Things is a thought provoking play that discusses themes of human nature, appearance and relationship dynamics. It works well as a filmed production, using the intimacies of film and including the audience in the final act, when Adam and his friends sit among them. If you missed the production this summer, here is your chance to view one of the shows of the summer that will keep you thinking long after you have seen it.