Based on the Gwangju Democratic Uprising of 1980 in South Korea, when students and citizens protested for freedom with thousands losing their lives or receiving injuries, this production is a quietly devastating and at times, haunting, piece of object theatre. Featuring six performers representing a mother (Kyung-ja) who is a painter and cleaner, a daughter (Bok-hee), 3 friends and a musician – the show tells its story using movement, sounds, paper and apples.
Greeted by the musician, Kyung-ja moves in the background until eventually we notice her responding to an apple and sheets of paper, unfurling it to represent places and objects. There is a simplicity with which the objects are used, but that in itself makes it easier to understand the items which transcend language: we recognise what the objects represent, as the memories ebb and flow. The skill with which the performers bring to life the objects and the places, making them seem much more than simply representative, is impressive. The energy on stage is infectious: we feel that connection; we embrace the situations being outlined.
Seeing Bok-hee grow from a child full of wonder and mischief to one who is eager to stand up for what they believe in, draws the audience in. There is laughter and joy interspersed with the darker memories. We sense the inevitable and this draws us in as we can guess what is about to unfold at the demonstration. History is in the past, but we are in the present, reckoning with the impact of modern-day political situations which are in existence throughout the world today, an awareness that The Time Painter gently leaves us with.
Show Time: 6-24 Aug (not 11,18) @ 15:05
Running time: 60 mins
Ticket Prices: £13.50-£15.50
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-time-painter
Age Suitability: 12+ (Guideline); Accessibility and Enhanced Performances (may not apply to all performances): Wheelchair Access; Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Babes in arms policy: babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 18 months.