This is a light take on the distraction that social media can have in our lives and the impact that living a life through social media can then have in on the ability to communicate in real life.
Janusz is trying to write his PhD but is distracted; social media takes his focus away from his studies and responsibilities. He finds it easier to look at other’s lives than engage with his own; he is shy in communicating with those new to him. A chaotic flat is being packed up to allow Janusz to make his move away from distractions for a while and focus on writing, by getting away to Mull as per the title.
Through the brief 40 minutes of monologue between Janusz’s thoughts and his activity in distancing himself from his distractions, the chaos is packed up and moved out. Using a well-curated music soundtrack to punctuate the emotional journey of Janusz, the audience follows his moves from decision to despair, to bravado. Litwin is a likeable performer: it is no mean feat to hold a show on your own for 40 minutes.
The choice of songs is well-made and fits the different stages that Janusz goes through. The arguments with a protective mother are a realistic touch that are well-used. What does not work as well is all of this translating into the depth and breadth of that emotional journey. It felt like more could be developed in the writing and performance to flesh out that journey more fully. However, it should be noted that this is new writing and the show was reviewed at the preview so there should be time for this connection to grow.
Show Time: 8, 10, 12, 14 August @ 11:20
Ticket Prices: £7-£10
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/things-to-do-in-mull
Accessibility: Not fully wheelchair accessible; 20+ stairs; Strong language/swearing
Suitability: 16+