Review: THE INTRUSION, Birmingham Rep - Tour
Photo credit: Ant Robling
In a world on the brink of collapse, The Intrusion asks a powerful and confronting question: What would you do if the world were about to end? Enter the captivating trio of Siobhan Cha Cha, Kitty Devlin, and Alex Hinson, whose performances are anything but ordinary. This 60-minute production from Bric à Brac Theatre and Told by an Idiot invites you into an anarchic, thought-provoking world that will leave you questioning the very nature of survival.
Right from the start, you're plunged into a dark and unpredictable narrative that doesn’t hold your hand. At times, the meaning or intentions of the play are unclear, forcing you to stay engaged and patient, as the pieces slowly come together. The non-linear structure of the show keeps you on your toes, embracing confusion and mystery until everything clicks into place.
The characterisations in The Intrusion are incredibly sharp and dynamic, with the actors skilfully hopping between roles to deliver the intricate, layered story. The set and props are wonderfully engaging, with subtle yet clever design elements that indicate the beings who have survived are smaller than the humans who might be extinct. The stage feels like a world reborn, yet on the brink of repeating the same mistakes.
A standout feature is the accessible elements of the performance. The captions are well-integrated and serve as a clever addition to the experience, alongside Kitty Devlin's beautiful sign language. This production is a prime example of how theatre can embrace accessibility, making it more inclusive and setting a standard for future performances.
The play explores the possibility of restarting humanity, but with the crucial question – will the survivors learn from the past mistakes of the humans who perished? There are moments of clowning and dark humour, but The Intrusion is far from lighthearted. The serious undertones and provocative ideas present a raw, unapologetic reflection on extinction, human responsibility, and the future.
Though it may not offer a lot of laughs, the poignancy and emotional depth are undeniable. The original music complements the story, enhancing the overall atmosphere, while the anarchic tone pushes boundaries and keeps you questioning everything.
The Intrusion doesn’t spoon-feed you answers, instead inviting you to experience a chaotic world that mirrors the unpredictability of life itself. It’s bold, challenging, and heartbreakingly relevant. A must-see for anyone who enjoys theatre that pushes boundaries and tackles real, urgent themes in a way that will stay with you for a while.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Alanna Boden