Writer: Konstancja Kendall
Director: Lewis Maines
Blending sci-fi with interpersonal drama, Adrift delivers an emotionally charged story of desperation, set in the isolating reaches of deep space but unnervingly drawing on reality in its conflicts.
The sole survivor of an incident which wiped out his ship and crew, Eli Bowers lives a life of perpetual inactivity, accompanied by the voice of the ship’s computer Ada. He spends his time drinking and sleeping until his ship picks up an escape craft from his old ship, its sole occupant being the one crew member he doesn’t want to see again. However, Ada’s plan to make the reunion more bearable takes a turn for the worse, revealing the flawed nature of humanity.
The piece starts out ambivalently light-hearted, comedically exploiting Eli’s tragic situation to the point of farcical irony. However, there are dark undertones which are exposed as the story enters its second act, ultimately resulting in a domineering presence of malice that permeates the relationships between characters.
Konstancja Kendall’s script brings a truly original concept to life, as does her performance as Amanda Carter, the surprise guest to Eli’s ship, playing the contrasting sides of the character with convincing versatility and unapologetic drama. Her counterpart, Alfie Ford, conjures up the duality of human nature in his portrayal of Eli, toiling with the moral ambiguity that clouds logic and judgement in moments of loneliness and desperation.
Meeri Aro plays Ada, the omniscient computer who has devoted her existence to helping Eli, delivering her lines live which adds an air of authenticity to their interactions. With the base of a strong script, Lewis Maines’ direction guides the audience through the turbulent relationships of the characters beat by beat, each interaction led by an emotionally charged force of reckless selfishness.
With a fresh and innovative combination of fantasy and reality, Kendall and Maines bring an unexpected story of dysfunction to its climactic peak in Adrift, showcasing a piece of unapologetic theatrical innovation.
Runs until 15 August 2023
Camden Fringe runs until 27 August 2023
