Octopolis – Hampstead Theatre
An intellectual combat merges into a confused love affair. What sounds like a common trope, lays the ground for an interesting philosophical debate, when a pet octopus called Francis is the axis around which their relationship pivots.
Professor George Gray (Jemma Redgrave), a mildly eccentric, behavioural biologist shares her space with Francis who lives in a purpose-built tank. When anthropology student Harry (Ewan Miller), barges into their space, with permission from the University to carry out his own research, George’s dogma is threatened. As the two argue and bond, and argue some more, they unveil their flaws.
The delivery is clinical and methodical, mirroring the scientific content of the dialogue. Both speak as if presenting their own findings to the audience, momentarily br...