Showing @ Summerhall, Edinburgh until Sun 24 Aug (not 18) @ 20:30

The Sirens of Greek mythology were powerful female creatures, and as such this is an appropriate title for a show that emphasises the strength of their gender. It begins with the six performers, dressed in floor-length ball-gowns, who unleash a cacophony of discordant, ear-jarring singing. But what follows is far more disturbing and uncomfortable.

This isn’t a play with a narrative, instead it’s constructed of multiple vignettes that exemplify the many ways men belittle, intimidate and abuse women. It makes for very uncomfortable viewing; one scene in which a lady explains various methods for avoiding rape is spoken with such a calm matter-of-fact delivery, it drives home how common a problem this is. While molestation is extreme, another routine fires off a series of sexist jokes (to zero laughter) showing how the derision of women isn’t limited to physical or sexual mistreatment but begins with their negative portrayal in “harmless” banter.

This isn’t just a feminist rant however. Scenes where the group speak over each other may seem chaotic but are actually delivered with incredible precision and skill, making a seething soundscape of different make-up products or examples of female oppression. There are also moments of mirth, particularly a display of mellifluous vocal harmonies whilst simulating male masturbation against a backdrop of hardcore pornography. Ontroerend Goed‘s Sirens is an incredibly hard-hitting performance that addresses an age old (but sadly still relevant) issue with creativity and passion.

Showing as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2014