Mojo (Salford Arts Theatre)

New theatre company Inceptive Prioductions have taken Jez Butterworth's 1995 play Mojo as their inaugural show.

It is the summer of 1958 at the Atlantic Club in Soho, and teenager Silver Johnny is on his way up in the world of rock 'n' roll, but he is 'owned' by Ezra who runs the club. However one night Ezra is murdered and Silver Johnny has disappeared.

The remaining staff members Sid Potts, Sweets, Skinny Luke and Mickey are left not knowing what happened and whether they are safe from the man they believe killed Ezra and who holds Johnny.

Also there is Ezra's son Baby. Mickey assumes the management of the group of mini gangsters, seeming the most ressonable and the peacemaker, especially between the vulnerable Skinny and the volatile Baby. However as the self imposed lockdown continues, relationships are strained and finally the unpalatable truth is revealed.

The six young actors involved are all excellent, although Nicholas Wright as Silver Johnny is only really seen near the end. Ash Baines (Potts) and Daniel Thorn (Sweets) work well together, while Joe Exley is a convincing Skinny and Chris Kirkby a strong Mickey. However it is John Burrell's Baby that steals the show. He portrays the capricious Baby with a wild eyed realism.

Mojo is a black comedy in the darkest sense. The seedier side of the 50s nightlife is revealed and laid out for judgement.

The play itself might not be the most entertaining but the performances by this young company more than make up for it.

Mojo is at the King's Arms Salford until 8 November.