Flight @ The Bridge Theatre Review

Chronicling the journey of two siblings seeking refuge in the UK, Vox MotusFlight, based on journalist Caroline Brothers‘ novel Hinterland highlights the emotional and physical struggle faced by two young protagonists embarking on an unpredictable journey, unsure of their overall outcome.

A diversion from the usual staged performances at the Bridge Theatre, a carousel, surrounded by swivel chairs and headphones house carefully crafted ornate miniature set pieces, all inevitably playing out Flight‘s heart wrenching narrative.

From Greece, to Italy, to France, we witness Aryan and Kabir’s unforgiving journey, imagery of birds in flight a resounding reminder of their need for freedom and liberty, seagulls taking on the forms of police officers, border officials and the authorities, symbols of anxiety, pain, fear and loss often felt. A comment made by one of the siblings about their own cultural heritage heartbreaking as they question who they are.

Rebecca Hamilton and Jamie Harrison‘s intricate 3D models vividly depict Aryan and Kabir’s journey, Sav Scatola‘s character artistry adding the finer detail to this clever production. The siblings are constantly caught up between the show’s two states of being, the great outdoors and the boxed in, claustrophobic nature of temporary accommodation, the scenery an indicator of the hope, yet disappointment felt. Nalini Chetty and Farshid Rokey‘s voice work highlights the protagonists thoughts and interactions brilliantly, Emun Elliott‘s narration, an omniscient presence bringing the piece together, Mark Melville‘s compositions transporting listeners to this ever moving world.

Flight displays what these two resilient protagonists are subjected to, poor treatment, extortion and lack of food sad realities of their risk taking journey. Candice Edmunds directs an ambitious and inventive show, always on the move, days turning into weeks, months and sadly years. The ensemble – Waleed Akhter, Maryam Hamidi, Chris Jack, Robert Jack, Adura Onashile and Rosalind Sydney seamlessly bring the show to life, showcasing this pertinent story of survival.

Review written by Lucy Basaba.

Due to current restrictions, future performances of Flight are TBC. To find out more about the production, visit here…

Written by Theatrefullstop