| 14 August 2011
Last year, Chris Larner accompanied his chronically ill ex-wife Allyson to Switzerland’s Dignitas clinic. In An Instinct for Kindness, Chris reveals the circumstances, morality and humanity surrounding the journey they made, and, in doing so, gives one of the most poignant and frank performances you are ever likely to bear witness to. This show is, simply put, remarkable, and the viewing public deserves to see it. Euthanasia is a contentious topic, but in his touching account Larner does not presume to preach or postulate: the only words that hold judgement are those that belong to Allyson “If I ever meet my maker I want my money back – faulty goods.” The subtext of the play, however is undoubtedly a polemic in favour of our right to dignity and choice in the face of immense suffering and prolonged death.
While this is a heart-wrenching tale to be sure, the warmth and humour that laces through it makes it all the more human and astounding. With only himself and a lone chair on the stage, Larner effortlessly takes you from their first meeting to the last moments they shared, without glossing over the facts or faltering. His presence and acting is mesmerising, aided, of course, by a script that is so tight and lucidly composed that you feel swept up and carried the whole way through by its power. This is the most commanding and beautiful piece showing at the Fringe, an absolute must-see.
An Instinct for Kindness, Pleasance Dome, 3-29 August (except 10th & 17th), 4.10pm
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