Four strangers are sat on a tube when a global warning sounds telling them that a nuclear bomb is about to explode and not only is it coming for London, but they are in its exact location. What can one do when they are faced with certain death? Do strangers really come together in their time of need and what is more helpful in such situation: acceptance or hope? With no signal and no way out, it’s time to reflect upon our life choices and decide who we want to be in our last moments.
This show is well thought out and whilst the staging is simple the set is charming. A painted backdrop of a tube train and some very familiar seating covers that scream British public transport. Some light strobes are used to create the illusion of a moving train and our cast stumble upon the stage in the same way anyone would an active moving train.
The script itself is compelling enough, it tells the stories of each of our characters, giving us an insight into their personalities. We have Amy (Raffy Hawkins), a woman who has no zest for life or true sense of identity and her current partner Myles (Reuben Stickland), a pretty boy with a bright future but not a single individual thought. Stickland is our main comedic player in the troop and despite playing a smaller role within the script was a clear stand out. Next, we have Amy’s past love: Ben (Leo Odgers) a musician and the one that got away. Ava Godfrey plays the role of Lynn a dismissive and obnoxious politician, Nina Birbeck is our larger than life school teacher/ psychic and finally Liam Howie plays Darren our older and wiser (unless it’s in regards to the French) train driver.
The cast are very fun and the characters do attempt to represent a multitude of different ages and back grounds. Unfortunately, it is not however believable at times as most of the cast are very clearly much younger than their fictional counterparts.
I wouldn’t say that I walked away feeling any deep connections to these characters however they are fleshed out enough for us to grasp their relate-ability and purpose within the story. There’s very little that can happen on a stand still tube that’s destination is death, but the play is a good watch nevertheless and perhaps with a little more substance added and an age appropriate cast this could be a really interesting play. With a fun little dance number included and a talented cast The End Of The Line is an interesting watch, but it has yet to completely reach its finale destination.
The End Of The Line plays at the Bedlam theatre until the 10th August at 12:30. Buy ticket at: The End of the Line | Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Reviewer: Beth Eltringham
Reviewed: 3rd August 2025
North West End UK Rating: