Fringe review: THE CHAOS THAT HAS BEEN AND WILL NO DOUBT RETURN, Summerhall

Photo credit: Harry Elletson

The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return, written by Sam Edmunds and co-directed with Vikesh Godhwani, is a powerful urban epic that captures the wild, untamed spirit of youth against the backdrop of British austerity.

The story follows two best friends, ‘voice’ and Lewis, as they tear through the streets of Luton, fuelled by dreams of impressing girls, particularly Lakesha at her birthday party.

From the first moments, the audience is plunged into the vibrant world of Luton's youth. The characters, portrayed by Olatunji Ayofe, Amaia Naima, and Elan Butler, are bold, likable, and instantly engaging. The narrative unfolds over one momentous night, with the small cast freewheeling through the streets and council estates, capturing the intoxicating freedom of youth while also confronting the suffocating realities of their environment.

This coming-of-age tale tackles themes such as underage drinking, first crushes, parties, and the weight of big life decisions such as going to university or cutting ties with family. Both Butler and Aguinaga showcase impressive versatility, bringing an array of adult characters to life, providing much-needed comedic relief alongside the visceral monologues of the narrator, Ayofe.

Matteo Depares' sound design, with its thumping beats and rhythmic energy, perfectly complements the pace of the story, adding an extra layer of intensity to the hour-long performance. The cohesive nature of the play is a testament to the collaborative effort behind it—every creative decision, from the lighting and movement to sound and direction, serves the storytelling beautifully. The work of Jess Tucker Boyd as the movement director and intimacy coordinator, particularly in moments like the representation of a kiss, adds depth and nuance to the performance.

The ease with which the characters shape-shift helps the audience navigate through multiple perspectives, making the play both dynamic and engaging. However, the eloquence of the 16-year-old narrator sometimes stretches believability, though this is a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling production.

The structure of the piece is meticulously thought out, with every breath and movement serving as an important moment rather than just a transition. Despite its potential to be interpreted as a cautionary tale, the play manages to remain hilariously entertaining, making it a standout exploration of youth and its chaotic beauty.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Beatriz Do O

The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return will play at Summerhall until 26 Aug, with further info here.