Review: FLUMPS, Mercury Theatre

Fancy something sweet? Flumps, the debut full-length play by Essex writer Emma Jo Pallett, has arrived at the Mercury Theatre’s Studio. Originally performed at Colchester Fringe in 2022, Pallett’s dark comedy has since been in development with the Mercury, now becoming their brand-new Studio Original. Flumps is co-produced by The Thelmas, brought to life by the company’s award-winning Artistic Director Madelaine Moore.

Flumps follows siblings Harvey and Felicity, who after being abandoned by their mother, are left to fend for themselves in their family caravan over the school holiday. A parent-free summer may seem like a dream, but as time ticks by, reality sets in, with food and funds starting to run low. The pair hatch a plan, finding unconventional ways to keep themselves afloat, whilst trying to stay out of trouble.

The two-hander stars Robyn Holdaway (Netflix’s Sex Education) as older sibling Harvey, with Jadie Rose Hobson (The Trial of Josie K – Unicorn Theatre) as eight (nearly nine!) year-old Felicity. This dynamic duo is perfectly cast, and Hobson is particularly outstanding in her role as the cheeky, charismatic, animal-obsessed younger sister. The sibling relationship feels effortlessly organic, effectively capturing the overwhelming pressure faced by Harvey, as the oldest, who is desperately trying to make ends meet, keep social services at bay, and protect Felicity from the truth of their mother’s disappearance.

Kayla Teodoro and William Hamilton Tighe’s design is incredibly detailed. The stage itself is surrounded by floating silhouettes, and the caravan’s interior is covered with children’s drawings, colourful stickers, and schoolwork. In contrast, empty cupboards, worn carpets, and remanence of rat poison are stark reminders of the characters’ challenging situation. Costume, a whirlwind of mismatched socks and dungarees, are perfectly tailored to the personalities of the young characters.

Sound and lighting (Sam Copus, Gabrielle Rudkin, Megan Lucas) are equally as immersive, often transporting us into Harvey and Felicity’s wonderful world of make-believe. And transitions, although frequent, are enjoyable, overlayed with familiar childhood anthems and colourful washes of light, providing an instant hit of nostalgia for the audience.

Pallett’s writing is exquisite – jumping from heartwarming to heartbreaking in a matter of moments. From pole-dancing elderly neighbours, to pet-sitting, to top-secret MI6 recruitments, the 85-minute show is filled to the brim with comedic chaos. Flumps unapologetically revels in its child-like nature, incorporating beautiful animal puppets (created by Mikayla Teodoro and William Hamilton Tighe), that are gracefully manoeuvred by both Holdaway and Hobson. The play’s integration of puppetry, shadow work, and physical comedy is charming, expertly brought to life by both Jones and director Madelaine Moore. Moore’s method of visually dynamic storytelling is perfectly paired with Pallett’s comedic flair.

Although sprinkled with light-hearted silliness, at its core, Flumps is a desperately relevant story that speaks volumes. By uncovering the trials and tribulations of a struggling, low-income family, the play becomes a love letter to siblings, proving the strength and resilience of the younger generation. It will no doubt resonate with many.

Witty, wild, and whimsical, Emma Jo Pallett’s Flumps is an unmissable theatrical sweet treat, certain to capture its audiences’ hearts.

Flumps runs in the Mercury Theatre’s Studio until 14 June

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