Writer: Thomas Josef Burr and Hannah McLeod
Director: Hannah McLeod
As thought experiments go, it’s certainly novel.
In an unsatisfying, frustrating life, how best to get relief?
Working hard to fix core issues (perhaps with professional therapeutic help) is one direction. In the world Thomas Josef Burr and Hannah McLeod have created for Benji, there’s another.
Science has advanced enough to be able to transfer the mind and personality of a human into a dog’s body. Life as a golden retriever appeals enough to Benji that he successfully applies for the transition and spends a month going through the process of wrapping up his human life with his family, best friend and community.
His search for succour is touching at times and some of the bigger picture is intriguing. It’s compelling as a rumination of what it means to not realise the value of what you have, and how destructive it is to take it for granted. His decision brings out some heartwarming reactions from those around him, but also then leads to the destruction of all that positivity.
While Burr’s portrayal of Benji is fun, the fact remains this short piece itself is a little confusing. Deeper issues like identity, mental health and social issues are hinted at but not explored, and some of the storylines lead nowhere (like a potential development of his relationship with both his doctor and his best friend). It’s hard to see who this is for and what we’re supposed to get out of it. A pleasant journey with much scenery to amuse, but it’s a hazy sort of place.
Runs until 31 July 2023 then at Edinburgh Fringe
