MANIkin by Saltire Sky.

MANIkin performed by Josh Brock is a powerful story looking at body image from a male perspective. A bad diet and poor nutrition all add to Fraser’s weight problems. The play also focuses on what goes on inside the person’s mind and the trauma and life experiences that can lead to bad habits and overeating. Nothing is ever straightforward.

Bullying is poison. It seeps into every part of a person’s life where the sight or sound of the bully’s name is followed by feelings of fear and dread. Finlay, the bully tortures Fraser throughout High School (Secondary School) to the point that he leaves school early to escape and find a job. Who he is running away from?

Brock performs each role in the demanding solo performance, as he becomes his Mum, Jack, teachers and the bully, Fraser. Changing into a floral headband each time his Mum steps into the dialogue allowing the audience to easily follow the storyline.

Saltire Sky have a reputation to tackle issues head-on in their productions, it’s meant to leave you slightly uncomfortable or shed a few tears. After all good art imitating life should provoke real emotions, be prepared to feel!

The performance and script are strong and leave no holds barred. However, it’s not without faults as there are times I struggled to hear everything although the acting is strong and I could watch his body language to follow most of it. There’s room for some editing to tighten up the bullying scenes and allowvthe the play to pack a stronger punch.

For more information on this production and the companies other play Bits N Pieces performing in the same venue this Fringe please check out the links below.

Three and a half stars.

https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/manikin