Through the medium of the ghost of Alexander Blackwood, just as the title suggests, we learn about the history of several key pioneers of the deaf community in Edinburgh. Performed in sign language with creative captioning, this is a fascinating and revelatory experience: these innovative pioneers past and present, are piece of our hidden history, whose origins comes from the venue in which the play is performed.
The show is created and performed by a deaf team, and illustrates the different skills needed in performance delivery when signing. The show is accessible to all however: the beautifully haiku-like text not only flows on screen but looks pretty. This really makes the reader engage with the text and its rhythm, as well as the flow of the text: a striking way to include the audience in connecting to the piece. The soundscape is simple but powerful and the ominous tone, despite the piece being more uplifting than critical, pulls us into the action: there is change happening and we lean into the feel of the sound to connect to the change about to take place.
The two cast members are engaging. Amy Murray has the challenge of moving between different characters which she pulls off; Connor Bryson as Alexander Blackwood is a dignified and thoughtful, and the packed audience is enthralled by the story. Director Benedetta Zanetti has made a good job of using the limited space available to develop the themes of never feeling enough, but also shows the power that comes from quietly leading the way for all. The end with its interaction with the audience is emotionally charged when it comes, leaving a moment of poignancy that stays long after the show has ended.
Show Time: 10-11; 16-18 Aug @ 17:00 (now ended)
Ticket Prices: £12 (£10)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/ghost-of-alexander-blackwood
Accessible entry: Walk straight ahead, take the stairs to the right and follow these up to the bar located on the first floor. Wheelchair access type: Building Lift. Stairs: 20. Audio Enhancement System. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Age: 8+ (Guideline); Captioning. Signed Performance. Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 2 years