Review: BORDERS, Drayton Arms Theatre

Borders, written by Nimrod Danishman, happily surprises in the subtlety in which the writing approaches its subject matter.

Advertised as “a play about a Grindr encounter between two potential enemies”, one from Israel, one from Lebanon, you could be apprehensive and expecting a potentially trite political exploration of the middle eastern crisis through this love story but instead, what we are presented with is a really original piece that tackles the topic with great sensitivity and humanity. It brings to light the absurdity of the concept of ‘borders’ in the first place - a moment in particular which highlights this is the fact that the men are matched on Grindr in the first place because they are ONLY 20 km away from each other. However, as this is on the very border between Israel and Lebanon, it is far too dangerous for them to meet. 

All aspects of the production from the writing, direction, design and performances are tender in their execution, creating great intimacy on stage between the two men, despite them never meeting in the duration of the 60-minute play, and even having to direct their performances outwards to the audience, not once looking into each other’s eyes. 

Joseph Samimi and Yaniv Yafe have a wonderful connection and presence on stage. As an audience member, you really root for them in this modern love story.

Look out for the future development of this play and go see it when you get the chance to - it's certainly one to look out for.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Viv Williams

Borders plays at Drayton Arms Theatre until 17 February, with tickets available here.