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Hilarious Must-See Play Flips Modern Dating: Men Behaving Badly Meets Friends in London Romcom

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Thanks For Having Me (Riverside Studios, London)

Verdict: It was my pleasure

(FOUR STARS)

After several successful performances in intimate theaters, Keelan Kember’s quick-witted, humorous dating drama seems slightly overshadowed at the expansive Riverside Studios, giving the impression that it’s playing out on a TV screen from afar.

As a devoted fan, I firmly believe that a sitcom with elements reminiscent of both “Men Behaving Badly” and “Friends,” skillfully tailored to enhance its charm, would be an absolute delight for viewers like myself.

Skilled performer Kember shines humorously in the role of Cashel, a character who is nearly thirty, possessing an air of high-society, battling neuroses, overly concerned about health issues (allergic to numerous things), and self-absorbed in love matters.

After being broken up with by his longtime girlfriend, he learns about dating from his carefree, unattached best friend, Honey, portrayed by Kedar Williams-Stirling from the show Sex Education.

The game’s guidelines are straightforward: make yourself intriguing (by showcasing your musical talents over an accountant’s), discuss exciting travel experiences, subtly invite her to your home, emphasize that there won’t be any intimacy during the first encounter as a test of wills, and play Amy Winehouse’s songs to demonstrate your emotional depth.

Enjoy, then move swiftly on to the next one. 

Piece of cake. 

In a turn of events, Cashel encounters Eloise, a therapist who is open to new connections, when Maya (Adeyinka Akinrinade), Honey’s present love interest, makes the introduction. Eloise happens to be known from Game of Thrones, portrayed by Nell Tiger Free.

Trouble is, Cashel falls instantly in love with the leggy blonde. 

He wants an intense, exclusive, old-fashioned relationship — hopefully forever — with said cake. 

As a lifestyle advisor, I prefer to maintain a laid-back approach – no lingering goodbyes or formal morning rituals. It’s more like a swift encounter, in and out, appreciative of the time spent together, and looking forward to our paths crossing again. Essentially, I aim to preserve the essence of freedom and avoid being perceived as something to be won or obtained.

She wants to be as free as a man.

Of course, it’s not difficult to understand that the characters in this story change their emotional dynamics, transforming a romantic comedy plotline into a love story instead.

The men in this work are more skillfully crafted and funnier than the underdeveloped female characters, but Kember expertly navigates the complicated journey of transitioning from casual relationships to tentative bonding to temporary commitment to a lifelong commitment.

Light, bright date-night fun.

Until April 26.

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2025-04-15 12:50

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