Review: Solve, theSpace on the Mile (Venue 39b)

In AN alternate reality, Britain has become overpopulated to the point of government intervention in the form of an organised Russian roulette, or “solving”. There is a level of acceptance by people, but also a palpable fear from living within such sinister limits. Whilst all the “action” is off stage, we observe the tense, fractured waiting room atmosphere.

* * *

Responses to the imminent event range from enthusiasm to psychosis but each is individually compelling. At odds with the serious concept, though, is the comedy throughout, which doesn’t quite work. Despite this, the nervous energy is chillingly effective and the play manipulates our loyalties well by quickly creating likeable characters, only to dismantle the connection five minutes later. Such disorientation would have been even more effective with some exploration of the wider political implications. Overall, however, Bracket Theatre portray this miserable situation with a tingling intensity which reaches a screaming, ominous and powerful end.

Until today, 7:05pm.