Maks is a bin man. He takes a quiet pride in his work, not least as unofficial guardian of his local community, monitoring their wellbeing based on what they discard each week – or don’t discard. Valentyna, his wife, a ‘formidable woman’ is studying part-time as well as working, and together they are raising their child. Yelena lives in the last house on his round. She doesn’t bin much and what she recycles is mostly bottles.

The wonder of ‘Refuse’ is you’ll think you know where it’s going but this punchy fifty minute package darts off in several unexpected directions. Lucy McIlgorm‘s script sweeps up love and duty, discrimination, unresolved dreams and how you find hope and beauty when both have been taken from you. Inventive direction from Anastazie Toros fuels the action with striking vivacity.

The casting is exquisite and the acting is superb. Maks (Vasyl Sydorko) is steady, kind, quietly resolute so his sudden crushing almost-capitulation when the world around him crumbles, is devastating. Valentyna (Maria Shtofa) is as imposing as she needs to be but also playful, full of love and finally, full of fear as the real world encroaches on her carefully laid plans. McIlgorm as the alluring neighbour, is spiky, sultry and finally, all at sea. And the two women have great fun as the aged neighbours who persuade Maks to seek solace in poetry.

Underneath it all, this play is about believing in kindness and hope when everything else has been taken from you. Fittingly, half of the show’s ticket price goes to charity but don’t go and see it because of that. The script has been nominated for the Popcorn Writing Award but don’t go and see it because of that. Go and see it because this sharp, funny production will reach into your chest, grab your heart and wring it out.

‘Refuse‘ is at Assembly George Square Studios – Studio Five until Mon 25 Aug 2025 at 11:05