Preview: Up Down Man, Tobacco Factory Theatres

Bristol’s Myrtle Theatre, in partnership with Salisbury Playhouse and Tobacco Factory Theatres, bring their sequel to the acclaimed Up Down Boy to town in November.

This second instalment follows the continued adventures of Matty Butler – in Up Down Boy a child with Down’s Syndrome, now a man of 29. Written by award-winning playwright Brendan Murray and once again starring the charismatic Nathan Bessell (whose mum Sue wrote the original play), and featuring live music and original choreography, Up Down Man asks the question that faces every parent of an adult with a learning disability: what will happen when I’m not here?

All pics: Richard Davenport

So, what direction is Matty’s life taking in this sequel? “Matty is still living at home surrounded by his large, loving family,” explains Myrtle’s artistic director Heather Williams. “He loves going on country walks and spotting animal holes: he also spends time in his room, watching TV, singing, playing with his cuddly toys and talking to his imaginary friend.

“But recently there has been a dramatic change due to the death of a key person in his life. Those left behind are struggling with the dilemma of keeping him safe and protected whilst giving him more independence.”

What are Matty’s hopes for the rest of his life – and how close might he come to fulfilling them? “He wants to live in a flat of his own with a partner (maybe Angel from Buffy) and a dog called Rae Rae.

“Many people with Down’s Syndrome do achieve an independent life – but there are challenges which need to be overcome. Support is paramount, and that means extra resources. There are still barriers to being employed as an adult with a learning disability, and funding is being reduced for residential accommodation. Families also wish to protect their vulnerable relative, while allowing them to make decisions about their own life – a difficult balance. Up Down Man explores just what it means to be an adult – for all of us.”

The original play had a powerful effect upon audiences – and its sequel has been having a similar impact. “Up Down Boy tapped into universal themes: growing up, family, love, letting go. And there is something about Nathan Bessell’s performance that profoundly moves people. He is a beautiful dancer which gives us a powerful glimpse into Matty’s inner life. When we first performed Up Down Man at Salisbury Playhouse last year, audiences were in tears; many said it had changed how they see the world.”

Heather has also found the experience of working with Nathan a rich one. “Nathan has brought immense joy into my life. He is caring, thoughtful, delights in everyday things – and has a wicked sense of humour. Nobody can be moody or get on their high horse with Nathan around. He loves meeting his audience and is extremely honest about receiving praise. When [former National Theatre artistic director] Nick Hytner told him he was a great performer after Up Down Boy at the National, his response was ‘I know’. All actors strive to be ‘in the moment’ – Nathan achieves that constantly.”

Up Down Man is, says Heather, “ultimately hopeful”. “I really hope that people have an overriding sense of joy, with their eyes, hearts and minds opened to how much we can learn and benefit from knowing someone like Matty. As a society it is to our detriment that we ignore what people with a learning disability have to offer. Audiences for this play will witness a performance by a unique and exceptional actor who is superb not despite his condition but because of it.”

Up Down Man is at Tobacco Factory Theatres from Nov 8-18. For more info, visit www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com/shows/up-down-man

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