Ramy Essam became a part of history when he played his guitar at Tahrir Square in the 2011 Egyptian revolution. ‘Ramy: In The Frontline’ describes the journey from street fighter to revolutionary, as people came together against the oppressive Mubarak regime. Essam’s performance is multi-dimensional, using music, video footage and monologue to help capture his personal journey. The performance is incredibly emotive, and Essam’s descriptions are rich with disturbing insights: “you don’t feel or think when you are fighting at the front”. However this story, often overwhelmingly graphic and emotional, does occasionally feel lost in structure or direction. Overall, this is a powerful and hypnotic journey through the trials of revolution.

Summerhall, until 13 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [James Napleton]