My overall impression
Told in a series of 12 episodes, THE SNAIL is a moving exploration of Andrew who finally admits that he is transgender and wants to become a woman. From his conception to birth through his outing, writer and director Fabio Zito has constructed a very human story of self-acceptance and rebirth, no matter the odds. Arianna Luzi plays Edward and all his struggles to perfection, bravely changing her appearance for male to female in front of the audience, According to the writer, with Italy being a Catholic nation, it is only recently that the acceptance of homosexuality is finally happening, But unfortunately, transgender people are still seen as suffering from a disease. The play is very topical right now given the news making transition of Bruce Jenner in the headlines. Let’s hope this play goes on to other Fringe festivals to hep spread the word that all people have the right to be exactly who they are and/or want to be. All of the ensemble players are fierce in their portrayals as Edward’s parents, neighbor, and the mother of his child. This bare bones production certainly needs to be tightened up, but is a brilliant world premiere show tackling an oh-so-current topic.
