Flight at the Bridge Theatre

Award-winning theatre company Vox Motus presents Flight, a beautiful and unique installation that sheds light on topical issues while simultaneously breaking hearts. Based on Caroline Brothers’s novel Hinterland, the production follows the journey of two young Afghan boys trying to survive and make their way to London in search of a better life. With its strong story and captivating design, Flight is an important piece to witness, as well as a reminder of the power of innovative performance.

Adapted by Oliver Emanuel, the production is a narration that gives voice to real-life tragedies, the hardships faced by those looking for survival and the danger that laws and indifference can create. Orphaned brothers Kadir (Nalini Chetty) and Aryan (Farshid Rokey) have one goal: to get to London as soon as possible. On their journey they face multiple obstacles, yet, despite everything, they push on, continually supporting one another and clinging to their dreams till the very end. With striking imagery and strong voice-over performances, Kadir and Aryan’s journey is full of imagination paired with informed, realistic events, resulting in Flight having an almost mystical quality interlaced with the series of tragedies it shows. Marking itself as a narrative success, the installation is unique but hard to watch; the story is frank, honest and impactful.

What further sets the Flight apart is the unique viewing experience: audience members are taken to booths, given headphones and set up to watch revolving panels containing detailed miniature models. The cumulative effect of the ever-moving carousel-like set, strong auditory design and isolated audience set-up is incredibly immersive and unsettling, inviting spectators to experience the tension and emotional beats of the script. In all elements the show is extremely personal, sweeping viewers away from the reality of sitting in the Bridge Theatre and taking them on the journey with Kadir and Aryan. The creative team prove their expert storytelling ability as every aspect of Flight works in tandem to elevate the plot and emotional experience for the audience.

Flight casts a deeply humanising angle on real stories of refugee children, and the life and death struggle to find safety. It is a resounding success, testament to the power of theatre to uplift voices – truly a unique experience and an installation that should not be missed.

Emma-Jane Betts

Flight is at the Bridge Theatre from 10^th December until 15^th January 2021, with performances during Tier 3 restrictions suspended. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.