Photograph by Peter Dibdin
Collaboration may be the current buzz word on the Scottish theatre scene due to financial constraints, but this World Premiere from three Edinburgh-based companies – Lung Ha Theatre Company that works with actors with learning disabilities; dance company Curious Seed and Lyra that works with young people – is testament to its worth beyond money matters.
Building on the success of their previous collaboration, We Are All Just Little Creatures, the idea emerged of exploring what it means to be belong using the concept of being invited. The Table was born.
Emma Jones’ fuchsia toned lighting design creates a soothing tone in the space where giant barn doors sit mid-way across the stage while a woman casually sweeps the floor as some actors equally casually stroll about as the audience take their seats.
Things get underway when award winning composer and singer, David Paul Jones (DPJ) makes his way to a keyboard side stage along with drummer Shea Martin, followed by more cast members who pace and crisscross the stage like an esoteric country dance but with the impression woven in that they are seeking their own place in the world.
The long fuchsia nets in Karen Tennent’s set sweep aside to reveal a large screen showing dreamscapes that are augmented by a voiceover describing life in this imagined idyll.
Such is the quality of acrobatics and impressive dance skills from performers Althea Young, Andrew Gardiner and Sky Su and the ensemble that the physical theatre element outshines other elements in this bold production. These performers practise and facilitate circus style movements such as an intricate rope scene involving kettling, and enabling chairs being brought to the stage in graceful balletic style that is a joy to watch.
Audience engagement is encouraged by issuing each person with a small map showing either a swan or a scorpion then asking which you are after the enactment of the ancient fable with the moral “It’s what I do.” when the scorpion inevitably bites the trusting swan. The intricately choreographed scene on the anatomy of a table and the irony in the litany of impossible liberal rules read out makes for a thoughtful theatrical experience.
Across this graceful, quietly energetic performance, the ensemble cuts some cool dance moves but particularly moving is the sequence towards end when partners are courteously exchanged and audience members gently invited to briefly take the floor.
Under the joint direction of the Artistic Directors of each company – Christine Devaney, Maria Oller and Jo Timmins – this utterly marvellous intergenerational dance theatre production with the pivotal question of who gets a seat at the table and why, demonstrates inclusion at its very best. The Table is a beautiful example of acceptance with a powerful affirmative message.
Special mention is due to the assured and confident cast from Lung Ha and their volunteer support team, the seven young artists from Lyra and the considerable skills of BSL performer Emily Hunter in this exceptional show.
Dates: 18th -20th June 2026
Running time:75 mins
Age recommend: 8 +
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 