Writer and Director: George Mann

Reviewer: Tracey Lowe

The Public Reviews Rating:

With the success of the award-winning film The Artist earlier in the year, people are no longer intimidated by the thought of being shown a piece of cinema containing absolutely no dialogue. So hopefully, when people hear that Translunar Paradise is a love story told completely through masks, movement and mime, they won’t go running for the hills.

Translunar Paradise tells the story of an old man (George Mann) who unfortunately loses his wife (Deborah Pugh). He then finds a suitcase full of articles that remind him of occasions in their life together. His wife appears as a spirit to try and help him move on. Mann and Pugh wear brilliantly expressive masks to portray the older couple. There’s great chemistry between them, and both have wonderfully expressive faces.

There is a almost constant musical soundtrack to the piece, all performed by one very talented woman, Kim Heron, and her accordion. It’s absolutely astounding.

It’s a very moving piece, with some extremely emotional moments. While no words are uttered, the audience are never in doubt as to what is happening. The story is beautiful in its simplicity, and immensely relatable. From the couple’s courtship, to their arguments, to their attempts to start a family, we are rooting for this couple, even though their ending is inevitable.

The important thing with a silent piece is the audience’s ability to be able to see what is going on. Unfortunately, in the King Dome, this was not always the case. However, this is not the fault of the cast or crew, and fortunately does not detract from the fact that this is a wonderful piece, which deserves to be seen by a very wide audience.

Runs until 27th August

Edinburgh Fringe: Translunar Paradise - Pleasance Dome, 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 rating

Tags: Deborah Pugh, Drama, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Fringe, Fringe, George Mann, Kim heron, King Dome, Mime, physical theatre, Pleasance Dome, Theatre, Translunar Paradise