Step Behind The Stage
Dick.
Riverside Studio, London - 20/06/25
Review by Alex King
After an impressive sell out run at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe and an equally successful stint at the Drayton Arms Theatre, Adam Kinneen’s Dick. arrives at Riverside Studios for a limited engagement. Charting the lives of five friends stumbling further into their twenties, the play explores sex, taboo, fear, loss and desire through the shifting dynamics of their relationships.
Taking my seat beneath nightclub style lighting and the pulse of heavy music, I was not prepared for what the next two and a half hours would deliver. I try to keep an open mind, but when you feel as though you have wandered into a club for a play titled Dick., certain expectations form. What unfolds instead is an intensely powerful piece of theatre that draws you in with ease before revealing its emotional depth.
The first act unfolds through a series of conversations that allow us to understand each character and their motivations. It feels loose and natural, almost deceptively so. Then act two takes a decisive turn into raw emotional storytelling, supported by Kinneen’s earnest and perceptive script.
The cast share a palpable chemistry that makes their bond entirely believable as long time friends and, at times, siblings in spirit. As River, Max Brennan brings a quiet thoughtfulness to the role, delivering lines with subtle expression as he navigates a profound sense of dislocation. Rather than presenting River as someone simply searching for belonging, Brennan shows a young man who feels utterly lost despite the connections around him. It is a portrayal that resonates deeply.
One of the most affecting sequences sees River alongside Ruby, portrayed by Frederick Russell. Their shared moment demonstrates the power of silence in a way that feels deeply personal and quietly riveting. Russell brings warmth and sincerity to the group dynamic, grounding the ensemble with a gentle presence before revealing more complexity as the narrative darkens.
Nina Fidderman’s Cleo carries herself with a maturity that sets her slightly apart, portrayed with subtlety and realism. Fidderman balances this steadiness against the volatility of her friends, yet she is given space to command the stage, particularly in a touching monologue towards the close of the play that lingers long after it ends.
While undeniably an ensemble piece, two characters hold a particularly constant presence. Noah, verbose and provocative, and Bailey, kind hearted yet quietly resolute, are portrayed by Joseph Lynch and Andi Bickers respectively. Noah could easily tip into frustration, but Lynch performs with such clarity and control that the character remains compelling. His monologues are articulate and absorbing, especially a stream of consciousness on desire that closes act one with weight and intensity. In the second act, Lynch reveals further layers, maintaining a commanding presence throughout.
Andi Bickers’ Bailey proves equally captivating. Whether delivering rapid fire humour in an early coffee meeting with River, asserting control in an extended exploration of power dynamics, or unravelling in a moment of raw vulnerability, Bickers performs with striking conviction. They shine consistently while also elevating those around them.
Beyond the performances, Kinneen’s direction ensures that extended conversations never feel static. His use of silence is particularly striking, allowing moments to breathe in a way that feels rare and deliberate. At times, overlapping dialogue captures the chaos of an unsettled mind with sharp precision. The production is further enriched by Harriet White’s atmospheric lighting design, nuanced set and costume design from Katie Shores and assured sound design by Polly Dacam, all of which complement the script without overwhelming it.
When the final moment arrived, I remained in my seat for a beat longer than usual. Around me, others did the same. There is an emotional density to Dick. that transcends its provocative title and subject matter. It lingers, inviting reflection rather than applause alone.
Cast on the Night:
Joseph Lynch – Noah
Frederick Russell – Ruby
Andi Bickers – Bailey
Max Brennan – River
Nina Fidderman – Cleo