STAGE REVIEW: Doomgate @ Laurel’s, Whitley Bay (30.10.24)

Doomgate, a spooktacular dark comedy anthology show, has opened its doors (of hell) and what a devilishly fun night it was. Set on one street in the Cumbrian town of Mould-on-the-Wall, Doomgate was brought to life by a stellar cast and ghoulishly gag-filled writing, which was a real treat for any dark comedy lovers. 

Packed full of laughs and sinister shocks, there was a fantastic mix of stories and despite their stark differing tones, they oozed into each other with ease. Ranging from daft and silly; emotive and haunting; to ‘I can’t actually believe what I’m seeing right now but I’m enjoying it immensely’. (This was in reference to the hilariously spectacular sausage-filled ending involving a retired deranged children’s meat themed TV show presenter.) Full of shocks and surprises, each tale had kept me guessing and hanging on for more. The superb cast provided quirky characterisation and fantastic moments of physical comedy; each actor bringing something unique, fun and captivating to every single character. 

Aside from being well received with huge laughs, Doomgate wasn’t afraid to go to dark places, which I thought was quite brave of a show proving to be an incredible debut from Carpet Time Productions. I’d love to see more from the world of Doomgate, as there is a lot of potential to celebrate more Northern dark comedy goodness, for there is simply not enough.

Doomgate is at Laurel’s, Whitley Bay until Saturday 2^nd November.