Night Out At: Bound

Bound at Hope Street Theatre, written by Phoebe Edmunds and directed by Phoebe Edmunds and Caitlin Newman, premiered on April 22nd.

Grapevine Theatre CIC, established by recent LIPA graduates, is a theatre with a social conscience. They clearly aim to maintain a connection with their audience, as evidenced by features such as a scan code on the program with a feedback link and a list of social media platforms. They have led Imaginariums Youth Theatre and workshops with youth groups in the Middle East. This work reflects their passion, and "Bound" marks their debut production, with plans to expand to other venues across the country.

The play features two characters: Dani (played by Hosanna Starkey), a LIPA graduate who has previously written plays, including "The Garden of Gethsemane" performed in February, and Charlotte (played by Jessie Wakelin), a graduate of LIPA Sixth Form College in 2023.

The play maintains a simple domestic tone, with the audience quickly grasping its themes, though the unfolding events remain unpredictable. Described as "a show as funny as it is heartbreaking," it carries political and social undertones, including discussions on same-sex marriage in the Church of England. The narrative oscillates between domestic bliss, gloom, and acceptance, portraying the couple's experiences with love, conflict, family dynamics, and aspirations.

The play's strength lies in its concise messaging, with each scene contributing meaningfully. Minimal costume and set changes are employed, with the stage transforming imaginatively to depict various settings. The use of lighting and sound effects effectively directs focus and enhances the narrative's impact.

With its energetic pace and dynamic use of space, the play engages the audience throughout. Its potential extends to festival circuits, educational institutions, and venues open to its themes, possibly accompanied by complementary productions. The commitment of the actors to the story and its message is evident, particularly notable as the cast comprises solely female-identifying individuals.

The play concludes with an open-ended question, leaving audiences to ponder the characters' fate and the broader societal issues raised. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and the Church of England, the play resonated deeply with me, prompting reflection on themes of acceptance, hypocrisy, and personal reconciliation.

Overall, "Bound" is a thought-provoking production, and I anticipate further impactful work from Grapevine Theatre in the future.