It’s a truly brilliant thing when the title of a performance becomes more than just a name, but a true embodiment of the core message of the show. Alone does just that. Not only is it about two women who find themselves “alone” on a failing spaceship, it also considers the more symbolic meaning of the word. How do you cope when a family death leaves you feeling alone? What about if you are a woman, who feels alone in her field of study? And what happens when you feel that your faith has deserted you?
From the opening dance party to Bowie’s ‘Suffragette City’, to the closing moments as the lights flicker out and The Smith’s ‘Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want’ crescendos, this show takes the audience on a complete emotional journey. The music choice was fitting and heightened the fantastically emotive performances delivered by Courtney Bassett and Anthea Freya Hill. Who knew that I would be so moved by The Smiths?
But that is truly what this show is: moving. From the tender moments discussing faith, and family issues, to tackling the unfathomable problem of what to do when faced with imminent death, this show does not shy away from the heavy hitting topics.
Being able to translate the easy camaraderie and relationship of two people who have known each other for years within the opening minutes of a show is no easy feat, but Bassett and Hill accomplished that and more. Their delivery feels so natural and authentic, heightening the utterly immersive atmosphere of the performance. The audience were unable to tear their eyes away from the stage for even a moment, and the silence in the more tense and emotive moments of the play was palpable.
And don’t get me started on the staging! From the minute you enter the performance space, you are plunged into the control room of a spaceship. The lighting, sound, and special effects create an intense and heart-racing atmosphere, and it all culminates in the gut-wrenching, poignant final moment. This truly was a impressive exemplification of how music and lighting can induce intense emotions and completely engross an audience.
Incredibly immersive and outstandingly emotive, its no wonder it is a multi-award-winning show. It is one of those shows that will not be quickly forgotten, and it is certainly a must-see this year at the fringe!
Alone is running until 24 August (excluding 20th) at The Box at Assembly George Square.
Buy tickets here.
Image courtesy of Luke Thornborough, provided to The Student as press material