That the Sun’s 1987 campaign against Elton John was knowingly untrue and motivated by homophobia is no surprise. Indeed, the cosy period details (Concord! Faxes!) and pursuit of easy laughs lends this play, at first, the air of something superficial, almost whimsical. But underneath there’s real bite. An extended metaphor of ink staining fingers runs through the script, carrying our complicity with it, before the closing lines draw an explicit link to the digital age and the spread of lies and misinformation on social media. With that warning comes something positive, though. A reminder that we have the power to reject untruths, to embrace kindness, and to choose what we say on whatever platform we may have.

Pleasance Dome, until 24 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Andy Leask]