Writer: Zofia Zerphy
Director: Bethan Rose
Spin Cycle begins wonderfully with a meet-cute in a laundrette. Kitt is finishing her book while she sits waiting for her washing to finish in one of the many machines. Noel walks in with their load, dropping its contents of lacey underwear and socks. Noel can’t get the washing machine door open, and so Kitt helps, but accidentally bashes Noel’s nose in the process. And of course, Noel has forgotten detergent.
As they chat and flirt about washing and then their artistic careers – Kitt works in collage, Noel is a sculptor – clues appear that perhaps they know each other after all. Noel appears to know Kit’s name already. Has Noel been stalking her somehow? Both have just split up with their partners because of financial inequity. Kitt, with inherited money, was jealous of her working-class ex’s success. Noel was jealous of their ex’s privilege.
But after such a promising start, the second half of the 60-minute play has the two characters washing their dirty laundry, and there is nothing so dreary as listening to strangers argue in public. We just don’t know enough about these two people to really buy into their quarrel, which takes us too far away from the romantic and bold beginning.
The acting, however, is first-rate. Rhiannon Bell, as the cheeky and passionate Noel, is a compelling actor, while writer Zofia Zerphy brings a façade of sadness to her role as the otherwise confident Kitt. Completely in tune with each other, the performers nail their roles successfully, especially when Kitt acts as a model for an imaginary sculpture by Noel. The chemistry here is sexy and exciting.
The ending, when Kitt picks up her book again, suggests that this won’t be the last time they meet. But hopefully, there will be less arguing next time.
Reviewed on 23 August 2025 and continues to tour
The Reviews Hub Star Rating