Issy Cory
We enter into a world where resources are short, a plague has taken over the human race, and all that’s left are scraps that couldn’t possibly keep anyone sustained. Hoarder goes out every day to see what he can scavenge, leaving Stoner at home watching the hours pass by.
Stoner’s psychological issues means Hoarder has to keep a close eye on when he’s taking his meds. Fearful that something might be amiss, Stoner stops taking them, and the voices in his head intensify, namely that of Gongle. Torn between staying in his coercive relationship, and escaping into the dangerous world outside, Stoner battles between his head and his heart.
Gritty Gaze’s concept could not be bolder, and it’s impossible not to lap it up. There are so few companies nowadays that would dare to present such an otherworldly story, but this fiercely talented troupe showcases some serious courage with Placebo.
Every inch of the production is steeped in post-apocalyptic imagery. Costumes are ripped up, bright green and yellow neon form the colour palette, barbed wire piles up, detailed SFX makeup covers the actors, there’s shopping baskets and even cardboard radios. It all feels wonderfully cohesive.
Anyone who knows me knows I love a bit of puppetry, and Gritty Graze certainly did not disappoint. Gongle is a haphazard construction of newspaper, lovingly brought to life by Enya Morrin. Morrin makes Gongle the most painfully perfect iteration of Stoner’s mind, willing him to leave his toxic partner, but being powerless to do so.
The rest of the ensemble put out some excellent performances. Sadie Kennedy as Zo has a tricky part, coughing and spluttering as their body is wracked with disease, but Kennedy does it with remarkable flair. Despite the dire environment, the cast still find plenty of opportunities for humour.
Whilst Hoarder and Stoner’s twisted relationship is played out with clarity, there is a certain fogginess around the past shared between Hoarder and Zo. There seems to be history there, and it would have been helpful to tease that plot point out slightly more to see how these two relationships play against one another.
Although donned in quite nonsensical garb, Corey Hudson plays the role of silenced Stoner with real beauty. Contrasted by uncomfortably controlling Hoarder, portrayed by Ewan Schooler, the conflict between the pair is deftly illustrated.
We’re asked a lot as an audience, but we are never left behind in this soulless landscape. Placebo’s ability to hold both this adventurous world, and the terribly real world of coercive control, is something to behold.
Recommended Drink: Don’t drink anything here, you might catch your death.
Performances of Placebo have now concluded at Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025.
Jake Mace
Lamesha Ruddock
Jasmine Silk
