(Dis)honest – theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall

(Dis)honest by St Catherine’s School, Twickenham is an energetic and relatable play. This drama comedy would be especially appealing to fans of podcasts and true crime. This originally written piece poses many thought-provoking questions about honesty and identity in an enjoyable and lighthearted way.

These concepts are challenged through the character Amy Bock and her not so honest life choices. Naturally, in true podcast fashion Amy’s crimes are discussed and dissected by various presenters and spokes persons that feature in the podcast. However, in an innovative way the play also includes the comments and views of the podcast’s audience. Although confusing at first, the audience and presenters’ opinions merge like an endless conversation showing the connection they all share.

Throughout the performance, the stage’s layout remains the same as when you first stepped into the theatre. With only a few chairs on stage the characters themselves are predominantly the set and make the scenes come to life though subtle but effective mime. Lighting is also used to emphasis that you are in a different space. One thing to consider is the stage is only slightly raised so the further back your seat, the less of the stage is visible. However, due to the play’s excellent story telling even with a restricted view of the stage, it is still an engaging experience.

Interestingly, throughout the play the characters remain the same, but the actors switch what characters they portray, this happens about 3 times in the performance. This trick of actors switching roles fits in perfectly with Amy’s character arc. Each actor portrayed Amy in their own way which makes one subconsciously think about questions of identity and the potential corruption of it. As the play progresses the more extreme are Amy’s lies and she becomes even more detached from the girl we were shown in the opening scene.

The less lighthearted scenes are broken up with adverts that include catchy jingles which you will find yourself singing along to. The performance covers many current topics like drag and being introverted in relation to identity. The actors’ synchronized movements and harmonized voices are impressive and give the performance a polished and professional feel. If you would like to see this play it is on from the 2^nd to the 10^th August (not on the 4^th). Tickets available at: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/dis-honest

Reviewer: Marcelina Kruczynska

Reviewed: 7^th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: