Perle is a hypnotising and unique portrayal of grief. The one character, Thomas, communicates through a television set because he enjoys the control that video offers him, the power of image manipulation. By merging a medieval poem about feelings of detachment and loss with illustrations on screen, Thomas poses many questions about the digital age and the power of memory. The animation on the television is charming; its childlike innocence is surprisingly revealing and evokes pathos for the grown man standing on stage. The entrancing soundtrack preserves the rhythm of the show and re-enforces its simplicity. Subtle, sweet and intelligent, ‘Perle’ is the poignant re-invention of melancholy.

Assembly Roxy, 3-15 Aug, 1.45pm
tw rating 4/5 | [Paige Wilson]