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ED2016 4/5 Reviews ED2016 Theatre Reviews
Empty Beds (Pennyworth Production)
By Hannah Greenstreet | Published on Tuesday 23 August 2016
Julia Cranney’s new play subtly explores the impact of cuts to mental health services, which mean that the only bed available to a hospitalised person might be far away from relatives. ‘Empty Beds’ is set in a train-carriage (with an astoundingly authentic set design by Anna Reid). Tempers fray between the Wyld sisters, who, it is gradually revealed, are travelling to visit their brother in a psychiatric ward. Cranney’s writing , along with superb acting by Matilda Tucker, Carys Wright and Cranney herself, deftly captures the dynamics of sisterly relationships, veering from light-hearted teasing to seriously wounding recriminations. Unfortunately the ending of the play is rather abrupt, leaving aspects of the funding crisis and the sisters’ relationships with their brother unexplored.
Underbelly Cowgate, until 28 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Hannah Greenstreet]
