Refuge

What I liked

This space worked beautifully for this show. The different levels and in-the-round format served it well.
I enjoyed that the details of the pandemic weren’t needed to go along with this story. Almost preferred actually, considering.

What I didn't like

The movement sequence for the passage of time was a little jarring, came on so quickly with no hint of it coming. The positioning of the actors at the start of it seemed like a bow, so it was a bit confusing. It’s a very useful tool to show the passing of time and by the end of the sequence I enjoyed it so I’m certainly not saying drop it! Perhaps needs to be tweaked so it has a smoother seam.

My overall impression

Not the “pandemic story” I was expecting, in the best way possible. A moving script, brilliant acting, and a detailed design combine to create a fully imagined world. “Refuge” is a beautifully painful story that reminds us of our need to take care of each other and ourselves.