I went to see Heartsink – a new play by a former GP, no less – and came out feeling like I’d been poked in the ribs and punched in the gut. In a good way. Mostly.
The setup is simple: four actors, two doctors (one old, one young), one patient, one hospital secretary. The set? Minimalist. Same desk, same chairs, just spinning round to remind you that you’re still in a doctor’s surgery. No fancy props, no distracting gimmicks. Just 85 minutes of straight?up, no?interval theatre in a lovely little intimate venue.
Here’s the plot (skip if you don’t want spoilers, but honestly, you’ll see it coming a mile off): the senior doctor goes for some routine tests and discovers he has advanced cancer. Cue existential chats about life, death, euthanasia, and how on earth you tell your loved ones the bad news. Spoiler alert: the doctor dies. (Sorry – but it’s not exactly a twist.)
So, is it a comedy?
Well, yes and no. It’s a comedy in the way the British do best: extremely dry, sometimes acidic, always ironic. You will laugh. But you’ll also get that lump in your throat. The one that makes you cough awkwardly so the person next to you doesn’t notice you’re crying. It’s sweet and bitter at the same time – like life, really.
Who is it for?
Not your standard “girls’ night out” giggles?and?Prosecco fare. This one’s for when you want to think a bit. Meditate. Question your own mortality. You know, light entertainment.
The acting is top notch – all four are brilliant. Kathy Kiera Clarke (yes, from Derry Girls) brings her usual magic as the patient Cara, and Aden Gillet as the doomed Dr Jeffrey Longford is utterly convincing. The secretary and the young doctor add real depth too.
The verdict:
A well?made, well?acted, genuinely moving piece of theatre. But be warned: it’s about death. And the NHS. And assisted dying. Not exactly a laugh?a?minute, but if you like your comedy with a side of existential dread, go for it.
Heartsink runs at Riverside Studios until 10 May 2026. Bring tissues. And maybe a gin afterwards.
Hi, I’m Fran! I live in central London and I’m constantly out and about. I enjoy everything London has to offer: Art, Music, Theatre, Sports, History and whatever else has the power to entertain me. I’m looking forward to sharing my passions with you here!
