Showing @ Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh until Sun 24 Aug @ times vary
There are some desires, regrets, key moments and conversations that shape who we are and the decisions we make, both the good and bad. People seek their own definition through the relationships they hold, but commitment to another person isn’t an easy thing to manage. Owen McCafferty, writer of 2013 hit Quietly, brings a frank story about our closest relationships, betrayal and humanness to the Traverse Theatre this Festival.
Directed by Rachel O’Riordan, the action takes place on a revolving set that changes between two homes and a hotel bar. Each of the four characters experiences their own crisis of confidence in one way or another as they search for meaning and assurance. McCafferty’s dialogue is brutal and honest and with it he captures the nuances of relationships that are stuck: not broken as such, just inert. It’s darkly funny, but tragic. In the end, it’s not about right or wrong, morals or ethics; it’s about movement, change and growth. There are things we do and secrets we keep to make things easier, and better. Unfaithful shows the risks of doing so, and the pay-off too.