SCORCH Holden Street Theatres Holden Street Theatres Until 19 Mar 2017 Review by Janice Bailey This acclaimed play from the Edinburgh Fringe, written by Stacey Gregg and perceptively directed by Emma Jordan, is a wonderfully crafted piece of theatre which highlights the topic of gender identity. Growing up is fraught with endless self-doubt about identity, so a young person who questions their gender can be overwhelmingly confused. While the idea of a male identifying as female has been explored there has been far less discourse around the idea of a female identifying as a male, until recently. While I have no doubt it is not a ‘modern’ issue, it seems it hasn’t been discussed because of our societal expectations, particularly around women’s issues. This play is therefore even more timely and relevant. Stacey Gregg has crafted a beautifully written play which highlights a societal issue which needs to be talked about in order for it to be properly understood. At the core, the story is about love and there should be no limitations or discrimination on how or who we love. As a race we tend to condemn what we don’t understand. This play is an example of theatre’s true purpose and justly deserves the accolades which it has received. Amy McAllister as the focus of the ‘issue’ has taken an excellent script and created a character which she fully inhabits. She is superb. Her physicality portraying the confusion, sadness and initial innocence of the girl is amazing. This technique is clever and serves to provide breaks between the monologues – although in themselves they are emotional and heart wrenching for the audience. The stage has been set ‘in the round’ so that we, as an audience, are able to feel totally involved. Every member of the audience in the intimate space that has been created was mesmerized by what was unfolding before their eyes. I would recommend that anyone who avails themselves of this experience will not be disappointed. Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)