Set just after WWI, this explores the story of what it means to be stuck in a time and feeling that war has engendered. Not everyone could fight and both those that did and those that did not ended up being impacted. What that means and how it is perceived is explored in this fascinating piece by Philip Stokes.
The space used for Shellshocked lends itself well to the feeling of being trapped in a space, just as the painter, Mr Lupine, and the ex-soldier, Wesley Hepton, end up experiencing. The painter, a highly unlikeable character portrayed with just the right element of obnoxiousness by Lee Bainbridge, is a type that we recognise: someone who is expert at putting others down, but ultimately is coming from a place of self-hatred, even if that could never be admitted to themselves. The soldier, a heart-breaking Jack Stokes, who experiences the pain and fear of shell shock, is ultimately someone who has strength within themselves, but needs pushed to allow this to come to the fore. When it is revealed that he is only 19, the true horrors of war is clear: this young man has been through and experienced things that some of us may never know in our life time.
There are moments of delightful dark humour, with clear direction helping the journey of the play unfold. When the denouement comes, it is not surprising but it is jolting. The opening and closing voiceover from Richard III is an interesting inclusion. Does this mean that some can be the architects of their own undoing? You should watch this to make up your own mind.
Show Time: 10:50 (13:35 - extra show 19 Aug only)
Pleasance Courtyard
12-26 Aug (not 14)
Ticket prices: 12-13, 15, 19-22, 26 Aug £13 (£12); 16-18, 23-25 Aug £14 (£13)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/shellshocked-an-explosive-new-play
Accessible entry: Access via driveway off main road. Performance space is on Ground Floor with no steps. Wheelchair access type: Level Access. Stairs: Information not supplied. Audio Enhancement System. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 2 years.