ED2016 3/5 Reviews ED2016 Theatre Reviews

Swivelhead (Pipeline Theatre Company)

By Aida Rocci | Published on Saturday 20 August 2016

Drones and weddings have become tragically associated in our recent history, so it’s unavoidable to see the connection in ‘Swivelhead’, the story of a drone operator who turns into an owl the night before his sister’s wedding. It sounds absurd, yet the play is addressing the complicated topics of modern warfare, masculinity, mental health and changing ethics, all without neglecting the personal side of the story. It’s a highly symbolic, complex piece that sometimes becomes confusing, inaccessible, or hard to empathise with, but Pipeline can only be commended for what they are trying to achieve. With remarkable performances, detailed direction and an evocative design, this daring, symbolic new play is not perfect but worth attention.

Pleasance Courtyard, until 29 Aug.
tw rating 3/5 | [Aida Rocci]