At the Institute of Plant Industry in Leningrad, two scientists Olga (Turku Koksel) and Nina (Rosan Tan) protect and analyse a seed bank, to ensure that if there is ever a famine, that humanity can be saved. The scientists that have volunteered for this role, face starvation themselves, as during World War II and the siege of Leningrad, German and Finnish forces cut off the city to starve them into submission.
We find the two scientists with minimal food, knowing that some of their colleagues have already died. The play interrogates why this group of scientist are prepared to put their own lives on the line for the sake of humanity. Written by Darren and Griffin Katz, and directed by Ben Evans, the one-act play is set entirely in the one seed lab, as they discuss the reality of their future, and what they have sacrificed to take part in such an undertaking.
The play is a four-hander, with the two main characters being visited by significant people in their lives, creating a moral dilemma encouraging them to question if they are doing the right thing. The subject matter is interesting, and so I was intrigued to know more. The set design by Jess Graham works well, and the sound (Evonne Dunne) and technical team are spot on with their support. But sometimes the acting felt a little wooden, and I found myself not really connecting with the play as much as I would have liked due to this, and this is a shame, because it is an interesting subject.
The play overall has a lot to recommend it, but I just feel the performances need some work.
The play runs until the 25th August at Studio at theSpace @ Niddry Street. To book tickets to go – https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/against-the-grain
Reviewer: Caroline Worswick – Theatre Muse UK
Reviewed: 23rd August 2026
North West End UK / Theatre Muse UK Rating: