Matt Parvin’s blistering new drama tests the limits of retribution and the power of social status at university.
“You’ve got to throw yourself in, yeah? Do you see? Have to throw yourself right in, whatever that entails.”
Freshers’ term. Greg has taken to university life like a duck to water. Kasper is struggling to fit in.
Summoned to a mediation session with Kasper and the college welfare officer to discuss an accusation of plagiarism, Greg deftly argues his way out of trouble. But when the allegations evolve into something altogether more damaging, how long can Greg remain untouchable?
Gentlemen examines what happens when culture turns toxic, and how a fear of not fitting in risks everyone losing out.
Matt Parvin’s previous work at Arcola: Alice in Wonderland (2013). Matt trained as part of the Arcola Theatre Writer’s Programme in 2015. His other plays include The Noble Nine (Vault Festival); Jam (Finborough Theatre); Two Roads (Vault Festival); Cousins (Soho Theatre).
Richard Speir’s previous work at Arcola: Spun (2018), Broken Lad (2021)
Image by Mihaela Bodlovic, additional post-production by Jamie Lu.
