Zoo Playground played host to actors Verona Verbakel and Anemone Valcke performing The Ego. It isn’t a conventional production and at first I thought it was about their “ego” oh how wrong I was.

The duo shared stories about the industry and the abusive situations they found themselves in under the guise “of helping their career” not sure it ever helps anyone but the person in a position of power and manipulation.

The opening scene shows the reaction after being rejected for a role in a film. Tears, anger and frustration face the audience on the screen at the back of the stage. It’s not something that often gets shared and how the impact of rejection is expressed. It’s a human emotion many keep private in fear of ridicule and appearing vulnerable.

The Ego represents the male ego and how they use it to get their own way or to exert power over others, in this case young vulnerable women. These abuses can be sexual, unwanted advances and uninvited criticism.

Many women in the auditorium will recognise similar situations that they have been in at some point whether current or historical. This play is still as current today as it ever has been, equality should be mutual respect not just a passing phrase.

The Ego stays with you after watching the play to digest the subtle way they present themes of abuse and how they have experienced their industry.

For more information about The Ego please use the link below.

Three Stars

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-ego

https://edinburghfestival.datathistle.com/event/2697905-the-ego/