Contemporary queer relationships are under the spotlight in the successful re-run of writer Paul Bradshaw´s double bill, Tell Me Straight / Aggy, currently on at Islington´s King´s Head Theatre.

The semi-autobiographical Tell Me Straight takes us into the world of Him (Paul Bradshaw), a thirty-something gay guy trying to break a long-running cycle of hooking up with straight-identifying men. He has fun with these men, but they invariably return to their female partners before any relationship can begin to develop. Him talks us through his messy present and past relationships, and introduces us to, amongst others, bisexual Lee, straight but curious Ryan and best friend Matt. These are all played very competently by Elliot Rogers. Him’s great friend Dani (Jade Anouka – off stage – just featured as voice notes) patiently and humorously tries to advise and guide him to more fulfilling relationships. Maybe a thirty-day period of abstinence will break the spell. Let’s see…

Tell Me Straight is a sharp, humorous take on modern dating culture, identity and relationships. The cycle of repeated mistakes and mishaps is one many will relate to, as is the quest for the elusive long-term relationship. It’s well-paced and complemented by Cheng Keng’s excellent lighting and Damien Stanton’s intimate set. The sharp script kept me alert. I particularly loved Dani´s inserts. The different characters all played by Elliot Rogers with a similar appearance were a little confusing at times – wittily noted by Him as he comments ¨You look familiar¨ Rogers is, however, very easy on the eye, so I’m sure no one´s complaining about the full use made of him.

Aggy also explores identity, and how we often feel we have to craft a certain persona to achieve career success, particularly on social media. This is wrapped up in a package that also examines privilege, gender, authenticity, and race.

Twenty-somethings Lawrence (Matthew Jordan) and Mahlik (Jean-Luke Worrell) have been together for about a year. Mahlik has just moved into Lawrence’s parent-funded apartment in London. Lawrence is an artist and spends a lot of energy cultivating a certain image on social media. When things start going wrong for him online, Lawrence has a risky idea for him as a solution. This involves a fabricated persona, which, although initially successful, places pressure on the couple’s relationship.

Aggy is a play for our times. Bradshaw successfully conveys Gen Z´s angst, flaws, neediness and thinking into an entertaining hour, beautifully complemented by another great set from Damien Stanton and innovative lighting from Cheng Keng. Alice O´Hanlon´s movement direction adds graceful dance and intimacy to the proceedings. Matt Lowell’s video design is excellent. It´s rare to see video used on stage – the audience is generally at the theatre to avoid looking at screens – but this video work is special, key to the story and not over-intrusive. Aggy is modern, fun, intense at times, and overall very original entertainment.

On at London´s King´s Head Theatre until 14th November.