Morals and ethics are explored in Simon Turley’s new work that launches the "Theatre of Science" season in Plymouth.
Review: Elaine McFadyen

The intimate Drum Theatre lets the cast of four get up close and personal with their small audience.

The scenes take place in Africa and England, often simultaneously. We slip from the rural poverty of Nairobi to the modern comfortable convenience of urban loft-style living.

Research scientist Rachel (Clare Wille) and her artist boyfriend Paul (Jonathan Lisle) are both passionate about their work.

But their relationship unravels as she gets more deeply involved in gene therapy, while he exploits her research as a means to get his art into Tate Modern.

Cameras and Videos

Cameras and videos are used in the play

The staging has many modern elements woven into it - the use of cameras and video on stage, mobile phones (my pet hate!), trendy soundtrack, and beautiful lighting.

But annoyingly words are projected to say "days later" or "weeks later", with monotonous regularity.

Not necessary as we should understand that from the script and stage direction!

The dialogue is complex and the subject matter controversial, as expected. This is meant to be educational and provoke discussion when you leave the theatre.

I appreciate that so much work has gone into making this new work but at times I wanted it to pick up the pace. I wanted a bit more movement and animation.

The characters make long speeches just standing still sometimes even with arms crossed. Closed body language is not good in theatre.

Is it Art?

Hawa (Krissi Bohn)

Research and treatment of HIV and Aids constantly presents us with uncomfortable dilemmas.

Drug companies make millions of dollars out of people’s suffering instead of giving help to those in Africa.


Unwanted pregnancies are terminated daily, while other babies are born dying of Aids.

These are the issues raised in Seeing Without Light.

Then there's Paul and Dan's (John Morrissey) unauthorised use of Rachel's research for their art installation. Blood, excreta and bodily fluids......well is it art, or the fuel for a lethal epidemic?

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