| 10 August 2011
David Leddy is a notorious ‘theatrical maverick’ (The Financial Times) and ‘Scotland’s hottest, edgiest young playwright’ (The Guardian), so I was excited for what was in store. The production is accompanied by a publication that contains the play’s full script. an introduction by the writer, references to all quotations and music as well as the creative team’s biographies. I started to read as I waited in the queue.
The introduction is written in an approachable, relaxed tone and his explanations, which actually describe something potentially profound, complicated and perhaps indescribable, are refreshingly straightforward and honest. The play draws on the biography of Louise Bourgeois; we follow the experiences of her, a priest, an historian and a writer through a period in Venice. We witness anecdotes of love.
The experience David Leddy has described he would like his audience to feel is something of meditation. I was particularly drawn to his acknowledgment of the personal, subjective experience of being one of an audience. Knowing that the show would premiere at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, he has said, “I like to think of the piece as an antidote to the insanity of the Fringe. You’re tired, hungover, late, running across town from one show to another…” This was exactly my day, and probably everyone else’s too. He actually wrote a play for me and you. I’m a bit blown away.
Although the premise sounds gentle and comfortable the tone of the experience itself is unnervingly frank; it is blissful, sickening, tragic and heartfelt. I think I fell a bit in love, as well as a bit asleep (in the intended meditative way).
David Leddy's 'Untitled Love Story,' St. George's West, 11-29 Aug, 6 pm
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