There’s no mistaking what writer/performer SE Grummett is up to here. They want to broaden our view of what is ‘normal’ and deepen our empathy for those who don’t fit the norms. Whilst sometimes I found the tone over-insistent, this is a funny, delightfully inventive and highly original show delivered with bravery and great technical skill. I loved the combination of dolls, excellent props, graphic art, projection, parody and physical performance. And the squid. Throw in a bit of audience involvement and this was a real ‘weird’ success. The show’s octopodic metaphor is about as direct as it could be in inviting us to reflect on gender diversity. But there’s also a wider plea for tolerance of all ‘difference’. Excellent.

Summerhall, until 28 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Alan Cranston]