0

	Varndean School Car Park (venue website) Theatre 11, 18 May, 12:00pm-1:00pm, 1:30pm-2:30pm, 3:00pm-4:00pm, 4:30pm-5:30pm, 6:00pm-7:00pm
World Premiere.  Suitable for age 18+ only.

It’s been a hidden highlight of the last two Fringes: intimate, intense, and occasionally profound. So we’re excited about the return of the This Time series, which sets a sequence of two-handed theatrical vignettes in the cramped confines of ordinary cars. They’re everyday, nondescript vehicles, and they don’t even go for a drive… yet through pitch-perfect acting and compelling plot, this mundane environment comes to feel as thrilling as any abandoned mansion or historic tower.

As our review of last year’s show pointed out, there’s a lot of clever social conditioning built into this setting. Crammed into the back of a stranger’s motor, there was a spine-tingling sense of eavesdropping in a very private space; and the talented members of Random Acts Theatre Company brought a breathtaking sense of realism to their often-emotional tales. Viewed so close, every word, tone and gesture took on a special meaning – and every word, tone and gesture was judged exactly right.

This year we’re promised four brand-new plays, which you’ll enjoy in turn as you move from car to car, and a tantalising new theme – the countdown to the bells of New Year.  If you’re based in central Brighton, do take note that that it’s a longish walk (or a shortish taxi ride) out to Varndean School.  But we think it’s well worth the trip; this is site-specific theatre stripped back to its essence, and surely one of the more memorable experiences you’ll find at the Fringe.