Devised from true events and performed by untrained actors, it’s hard to know exactly how to judge ‘Doglife’. There is a raw energy to the performance, but the script feels unpolished and under-rehearsed. Crucially, there is a disconnection between what we’re told, and what we’re shown. We are told that Tosh – a gangster and hard-man – wants to repent for his violent crimes. We are told he himself is a victim, a product of a broken society. We are told he is tormented by guilt. But we are not shown any of this. Rather, we see him revel in violence, reject love and leave a path of destruction in his wake. So when he asks for forgiveness, it’s a tall order.

Summerhall, until 27 Aug.
tw rating 1/5 | [Andy Leask]