Words: Rae Stewart

4 Stars 

Beautifully crafted storytelling leading the example of new work at this year’s festival. This exciting new approach to storytelling tells the tale of Simon who has a rare health condition of brain freeze which happens to be entirely fictional. It begins with Simon navigating his relationship with his father following the death of his mother with both avoiding direct discussion of their emotions and grief.

From the start we are grasped, quite literally by the splash off a paddling pool, but it doesn’t stop there. Guy woods shows an unbelievable array of multi disciplinary talents which shine through in this magnificent piece of theatre. Engaging with the audience to create the live sound mix, it is a fun and fresh take on interaction that brings an immense playful energy around the space.

The production creates some powerful visuals, especially the sense of loneliness and emotional relief found in a shower, which serves as a private space for tears. Still, the play held back from exploring deep, genuine grief; the tension didn’t feel high enough, and the ending seemed random.

Perfectly constructed piece of experimental theatre, in the renowned Summerhall Demonstration Room, this show resonates to those who have loved, grieved and maybe just been to the beach!

Puddles and Amazons
Summerhall, Demonstration Room
16:40
Aug 20-26