Southwark Playhouse Borough in London is hosting 'Redcliffe', a musical by writer-performer Jordan Luke Gage that tells the story of two gay men in 18th-century Bristol. The production, inspired by true events, imagines the lives of William Critchard and Richard Arnold, whose love affair was documented only through official records of raids and arrests.
Gage plays William, a shy local, while Daniel Krikler portrays Richard, an arrogant sailor. Their chemistry is palpable as they navigate a world hostile to their desires. The musical balances comedy and tragedy, with the first half focusing on the humour of falling in love and dealing with family expectations, particularly from William's mother, played by Rebecca Lock, and his sister Abigail, portrayed by Jess Douglas-Welsh.
The musical, directed by Paul Foster, features book, music, and lyrics by Gage. While acknowledging there is still work to be done, the production is praised for its ambition and emotional depth. The story culminates in a poignant scene based on archival records from Bristol Archives, where two men share a kiss on a hand, giving these historical figures a chance to live again through art.
