The new, independent company Kestrel Eye Productions brings their psycho-thriller to Edinburgh. With the scene set (it being close to eleven o’clock at night) I creeped my way into the black box theatre.
The concept of the play was intriguing – a shunned celebrity scientist presents her latest experiment which she hopes will bring about her acceptance back into society. The experiment being the control of human emotions by taking Matrix-like red and blue pills – the scientist making a human-like, winged creature to test these pills. While in theory this piece could have made some very current and relevant observations and commentaries, it unfortunately missed the mark. It did do as it intended to – we saw the effects the pills had on the creature, but with a lack of substantiality. I feel the piece was unfocused on the message it wanted to deliver – to me the main aim was to address the constant surveillance and detachment that technology has produced in society, but I don’t think the dialogue followed through on these themes – it was rather convoluted – so much so, that the prosaic style of writing reverted into ramblings. Going forward, I would like to see more interactions between the scientist and creature to really build their relationship, making the ending more meaningful.
The actors did well, although I encourage them to project more, as in a thrust-type stage it is harder for each side of the audience to hear. Of course, when the actor is facing away as all the sound projects out and not round, so be mindful of this. The insanity of both characters was conveyed, but I would like more variation in pitch, pace, and tone.
Finally, I do not want this review to dishearten the team or the potential audience (easier said than done). It absolutely has potential it just needs refinement and guidance from a more experienced theatre practitioner. And while I try to be objective in my reviews, there will always be some degree of subjectivity – so to the audience; go support this show. While it was not my cup of tea, it may be someone else’s bread and butter.
Reviewer: Jessie Martin
Reviewed: 16th August 2024
North West End UK Rating: