Have you ever felt like the world wasn’t quite built for you?
Meet Fred. Literally (it’s not just the name of the show). He’s a puppet with dreams. He wants to get a job, fall in love and have new experiences. Can optimism and dreams win against a system that fuels a cycle of keeping you down?
There’s a strong commentary about the social model of disability woven through the narrative. From encounters with the jobcentre, to benefit cuts. Who wouldn’t struggle with a job that doesn’t meet their strengths, needs and experience? Society and the system trip-up Fred at many junctures, but his optimism (with the odd bit of frankly justified swearing) keeps him going. When the impact of benefit cuts run deep, has it all got too much?
Fred is fully embodied by the three puppeteers who take on the role of bringing him to life, which they do to maximum effect. Bravo to Nicholas Halliwell, Sam Harding and Llŷr Williams. Halliwell also voices Fred, striking the perfect balance of hope and frustration as the plot unfolds. Making a puppet believable as a living, breathing being with their own dreams is not the easiest of tasks, but this cast curate an environment where we’re invested in Fred’s experience.
The set and staging are simple yet seriously smart. The narrative is randomly scattered across the chalkboards at the back of the stage. So whatever moment we’re in, we know there’s more to come, both good and bad. Such is life. Sigh. This resourceful approach shows that you can do a lot with a little, and just how effective that can be. The use of light, fans and music all add real atmosphere.
There’s a simplicity to the plot that is both appealing and somehow leaves us wanting more at points. There’s a sense that it could be a little more tightly packed to really get the audience engaged. The premise is powerful, the cast are clearly talented. Every stage is well thought through, and yet…
This topic has bite. A moment where puppet bodies litter the stage is poignant and shows the cost of a society that prioritises cost-saving over individual needs and lives. While the slightly naive feel to the show has appeal, more of this sort of content would make it harder hitting. Granted, this may make it less palatable for some, but gosh is it needed in these times. Given this show is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, perhaps this is part and parcel of how things have changed, and somehow very much have not.
Meet Fred is a show with a clever concept, an important message and strong moments of charm.
Reviewed on 7th February.
The Reviews Hub Star Rating
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8
