A surprisingly powerful show, this play explores some of the complexities of emigration, and the strains that puts on familial relationships. In Maeve’s journey – from Ireland, to Asia, to New Zealand, and into a new life – we see echoes of everyone who has left home and moved abroad. The dialogue comes thick and fast – at times a little too fast, given the echoing venue – but is wonderfully crafted and delivered, especially the conversations between Maeve and her father, which are often heart-breaking to watch. Liz Fitzgibbon as Maeve gives a particularly mesmerising performance. Humour is used expertly throughout to release tension, and it all builds to a beautifully transcendent final monologue that left the audience breathless.

Summerhall, until 27 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Andy Leask]