By Chaos Ensemble
Theatre
Fri 23 Jan
Blue Room Theatre
Review by Michael Nield

An abandoned house becomes an arena of life and death, complete with Hangman, Guess Who, and 20 Questions. 12 year old Dom must prove himself against Dee the mortician, with only his Lego collection and his shadow for aid.

Upon entering the theatre, the audience is made aware of another presence guarding, following, and playing in the space. The show begins with a beautifully crafted scene using puppets, shadows, and chaos. The rest of the play continues the theme, cleverly using light to set mood, develop story and signal changes in the reality the characters inhabit.

Solid performances from the whole cast draw the audience into an in-between place, where games rule and the future hangs in the balance. Standout moments from Dom draw the audience into his desperation, convincing us of the need to rescue his Dad from death. The games that make up this struggle are fun and engaging, though do little to express Dom’s growth and journey.

A captivating show that left me wanting more. Death Stole My Dad is interestingly crafted, lovingly executed and a delight to experience.

Death Stole My Dad runs until Sunday 25th January, and you can find tickets in the Fringe program.