Review: REWIND, Ephemeral Ensemble - New Diorama Theatre

Photo credit: Matthew Hodgkin

Rewind emerges as a powerful and relevant piece of theatre, offering a visceral exploration of the harsh realities faced by refugees during the dictatorship in 1970s Latin America, and the struggles of young adult migrants dealing with human rights abuses in the region between 2019 and 2021. The production is inspired in part by the work of El Equipo Argentino de Antropología Forense, an organisation dedicated to identifying the remains of victims of human rights abuses in Latin America. This historical context, combined with the emotionally charged, physical, and visual performances, creates a compelling narrative.

The multi-award-winning Ephemeral Ensemble, consisting of a diverse group of London-based performers and creatives with roots in Latin America, Iceland, and the UK, brings a rich and immersive tapestry to the stage. The seamless blend of visual, physical, and sonic elements vividly paints the Latin American landscape, taking the audience on a poignant journey through politically charged events and scenes of forensic anthropologists unearthing history. The work serves as a meditation on learning from the past, emphasising how generational trauma and injustice resonate within and around us.

Although the work is largely driven by the ensemble’s physical work, moments of text hit hard. Opening with a direct address to the audience by Andreas Valesques, it is clear that the ensemble, who co-devised the work, have a clear personal connection to the subject matter. From the very beginning, their investment is contagious making it hard for the audience not to be drawn into the narrative. From this point, the work seamlessly transitions between scenes, of the forensic anthropologists excavating the site where the remains of young activist Alicia were found, and her life before their murder.

Under the direction of Ramon Ayres are performers Louise Wilcox, Andres Velasquez, Eyglo Belafonte, Josephine Tremelling, and multi-instrumentalist Alex Paton. The synergy and unbreakable connection among them contribute to an immersive experience. Engaging with puppetry, vocal work, and moving the set, the ensemble brings their story to life in a dynamic and captivating manner.

A standout moment is the heart-pounding scene set in a courtroom, when the facts of past crimes are addressed. The culmination of this scene with guttural cries from Belafonte through live music adds a haunting dimension, evoking the screams of the dead from unmarked graves.

The audience's applause at the end of opening night was mixed with appreciation and heaviness. This speaks to the impact of Rewind. The raw truth embedded in the work lingers long after the performance concludes, showcasing the depth of the ensemble's storytelling and their commitment to conveying a message that transcends the stage. Rewind is informed, powerful, and leaves a lasting impression on those who experience it.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Stephanie Oszstreicher

Rewind plays at the New Diorama Theatre until 10 February, with further information here.