What I liked
This is a disturbing drama about obsession and the lengths that humans are willing to go to obtain what we desire.
Charles, is a young man on the verge of entering college, leaving his hometown for the first time and dealing with the reality of separating from his high school girlfriend. In a sudden bizarre turn of events, Charles is kidnapped by a neighbor. Held hostage in a basement as police, friends and relatives search for him, the reason for the abduction slowly unfolds.
“Absolute Zero” is not about mere obsession or infatuation, which plays a role, for sure, in the crime committed. This play is about the social masks each person in the world wears to some degree, going through every day life. The scenes between captor and victim are some of the most unnerving moments in the play… the tension coming from honesty, though, not threats of violence.
At every step of this story, sexual politics are a factor. This is a challenging and disturbing piece of theater, not easy to unravel and well worth a visit.
What I didn't like
The cast may have benefitted from a more detailed set, but that’s part of the Fringe experience. Let’s hope this show returns in a bigger production!
My overall impression
Dark, challenging and disturbing… this is a show that demands you to think. Emotionally charged night of heavy drama, definitely worth checking out!
