When it comes to meeting in person, two young men soon discover that they have conflicting agendas: Grey’s keen to shag while Duncan’s planned for a lifetime of cuddles. Their three-year digital romance falls flat as the two are forced into the awkwardness and tenderness of a real-life meeting, separating what’s real from what’s been imagined. After so much digital courtship, how could they possibly know so little about each other? And is anything or anyone on the Internet ‘real’?
Hormones and emotions run high in this hard-hitting and darkly funny two-hander. Newly graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama with an MFA in Writing for Stage and Broadcast Media, Daniel Huntley Solon directs his acclaimed US play in a new version for its European Premiere in Edinburgh.
Sex, With Benefits is a remarkable play, analysing the challenging world of modern gay relationships with humour and sensitivity. Two young men, with completely different agendas, finally meet in person after years of communicating online. Duncan is completely in love and ready to settle down with the man who he sees as his soul mate, while Grey is simply anticipating a long-overdue shag. The pair, having previously only communicated on websites and apps, is forced to navigate the awkwardness and tenderness of a real-life meeting, while confronting their own prejudices around their sexuality. This is heart-breaking and challenging theatre, performed by a newly-graduated talented cast.
Produced alongside Jake Miller of My Mate Dave by seasoned Fringe Producer Chris Snow, and performed in Sweet’s most intimate venue, Sex, With Benefits is a hidden gem at this year’s Fringe.
Performing at Sweet Grassmarket: Apex International Hotel, 31-35 Grassmarket (Venue 18)
July 31st – August 10th at 20:25 (1hr)
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