A.I.M (An Impossible Mission) showing at The Etcetera Theatre for just four performances follows our rookie secret agent Bai Zhijin as he sets out on a series of top-secret missions. Zhijin’s physical performance is a key feature of this piece. Over the course of 50 minutes, he consistently builds the secret agent’s character through precise use of body movement to represent the agent’s actions. The performance is a series of vignettes rather than a full narrative and several scenes will be familiar with those of you who watch action films and might seem impossible on a stage such as running along the top of a train or a car chase, both of which are handled with a lot of humour.

It is not always evident when Zhijin changes character and without the spoken narrative some scenes are confused. However, the production features several clever and innovative scenes. The pole dancer was my personal favourite.

In a fringe theatre such as this, atmosphere changes are limited, but with coloured light filters, our protagonist appeared to be underwater or in a nightclub.

Foley artist Jess Perry uses a tabletop of props to contribute to the overall soundscape. In this production the use of voice over and the addition of Perry as both the agent’s sub conscious and narrator adds another dimension following Zhijin’s movements perfectly.  

While individually each performer excels in their roles the effectiveness of the production is enhanced by their precise timing and on their ability to work together.

The final credits deserve a star in themselves for such a clever and entertaining ending. See AIM, if you can, for a fun and inventive physical theatre performance.

4 Stars

Reviewed by Nina Gardner.

A.I.M. (An Impossible Mission) is playing at The Etcetera Theatre until 3rd August 2025

Tickets are available at the link below

https://camdenfringe.com/events/a-i-m/

Cast

Bai Zhijin           Mime

Jess Perry          Sound/Foley Artist

Creatives          

Writer                  Jacob Morton

Director              Anja Longworth