Review: DEAD AIR, Greenwich Theatre
Photo credit: Jannica Honey
Grief and how we deal with it is the primary theme in the astonishing new show Dead Air, written and performed by Alfrun Rose. Dead Air follows Alfie, who subscribes to a new form of technology that lets the customer pay for their loved to be 'reincarnated' , but alas, all is not what she bargained for. A combination of a longing to reconnect with Alfie’s deceased father, and the warped technology that astonishingly brings him back to life, is what drives Dead Air.
An ominous green light, Eminem’s 'Without Me' and Cilla Black’s 'Alfie' welcome us to the confined space of Greenwich Theatre’s Studio where Dead Air takes place. A perfect setting for such an intimate piece of theatre that is both personal and gripping in equal measures.
The solo show is heavily influenced by Black Mirror, with a twisted new AI software that, through a pair of glasses, enables Alfie to see her Father again. The remarkable Alfrun Rose portrays all characters, from her Turkish Father to her overbearing but well-meaning mother and everyone in-between.
In the weeks that follow the death, Alfie and her relationship with her AI Father becomes even more twisted. The glitches and insincerity rendered prove that this technology is desensitised and is a mimicked version that is based on algorithms rather than truth. The need for reconciliation and forgiveness is what Alfie is searching for, but the fake version is clearly not the answer. Alfie clearly showcases the seven stages of grief through the 60 pacy minutes of Dead Air.
A subtle flick of the head, vocal tweaks and different facial expressions is all that's needed for Alfrun Rose to flit between these characters. The use of a vocoder is smartly utilised to imitate the ghostly incarnation of her Father, and whilst subtle, these changes show what a gifted mimic Rose is as she seamlessly ricochets between characters.
Alfrun Rose is gripping in the play. A mesmerising turn in which she effortlessly transforms into the different personas as she retells the story of her reaction to the loss of her Father.
A major positive is the constant drive to root the play in reality, forgoing the supernatural elements of the plot. Even though the technology is otherworldly, it is never felt that we are anywhere else but a contemporary setting.
The script buzzes with topical humour and a grasp of everyday language. The conversations are based in truth which makes Alfie such a relatable and empathetic character. Although she makes mistakes with her personal life (her rocky relationships with her boyfriend and her Mother), her pure devastation and emotional outpouring help endear her to the audience.
Seven characters - one performer. A tale of loss, love and life all rolled into 60 minutes of unforgettable charm. With Dead Air, Alfrun Rose has crafted an unforgettable theatrical experience that is packed with the darkest of humour and the most devastating climax.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: James Springthorpe
Dead Air plays at London’s Greenwich Theatre until 16 May, with further info here.
