Five Stars

*****

Although a contemporary play reflecting the current economic uncertainties in the fishing industry, the use of snippets of folk songs and shanties at the beginning and during the course of the play give Bound a timeless quality. The interaction between the members of the crew and the dangers they face could have taken place at any time since men went to sea on fishing boats.

The play is the work of Jesse Briton who also appears as the captain of the trawler, Violet. The script has outstanding clarity and realism. There is humour, poignancy and a building of tension in the final climactic scene. The six men who make up the crew vary in ages and personality. As the action unfolds, the cast skilfully develop the characters of the men portrayed, revealing their individual strengths and weaknesses. Their conversations are so lifelike in the way they feud, wind each other up, but, in extreme circumstances, they come together.

The limited size of the Studio room has both disadvantages and advantages. It is a small area in which to convey all the physical action but we the audience are so close we could well be on board the boat. This proximity completely compels your attention.

Reviewed by Ben

Venue; Venue Number                  Zoo Southside; V82

Dates                                                  6 to 30 August 2010

Times                                                 15.45 to 16.45

Fringe Programme Page Number: 233