Can you remember falling in love for the first time?

Audiences got a chance to see a different take on what it is like to be a teenager in love with the production of the comedy Beautiful Thing at the Marlowe Theatre last night.

The award-winning play, originally penned by Jonathan Harvey in 1993, tells the tale of two gay teenagers in an inner city housing estate battling against their fears and troubles during the 1990s.

It was first adapted for the screen in by Channel 4 in 1996, and has since become a cult classic film for LGBT people worldwide.

The latest production, directed by Nikolai Foster, began its 18-week nationwide tour in Canterbury last night.

It stars Sam Jackson (from Skins) and Thomas Law (from EastEnders and Casualty) as the lead characters Jamie and Ste.

Their relationship reveals the possible dangers that many young LGBT face such as being outed, bullied and labelled as a “queer”.

These concerns resonate with the audience because we have experienced similar feelings ourselves, and because other young people still face the same challenges today.

Jamie worries his single mum Sandra, played by former EastEnders star Charlie Brooks, will disown him. Meanwhile Ste fears that his alcoholic father will try to beat him up.

At first they worry they can’t even find sanctuary in their own bedroom because of neighbours on either side of the thin walls.

But from this room the pair begin to take strides together as a couple, ultimately ending in the glorious coming out scene dancing in the street outside.

And they do so despite all the chaos of the characters around them, such as Charlie Brooks’ powerful performance as Sandra.

She reveals the harsh and brutal sarcasm of a lone parent, but also brings the tender side of being a mum who always tries to do her best.

What is most impressive perhaps is her comic timing, which helps to bring the sassy humour of Sandra’s character to life.

Then there is the anarchic character of Leah played by Vanessa Babirye. At first she appears as though she will blackmail Jamie and Ste, but in fact reveals she sticks up for them.

Her love of singer Mama Cass adds an unusual but amusing counter story for the lovers to play off of.

Then there is also Tony, Sandra’s artistic Guardian reading lover. His attempts to fit in with working class people and be down with the kids also add another layer of humour to the play.

In the end it teaches us that it may not be easy to come out of the closet. It can feel like walking into a dark tunnel, but there is light at the other side.

Beautiful Thing will be staged again tonight (Tuesday). To book or find out more call the box office on 01227 787787 or visit www.marlowetheatre.com.