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thought-provoking and frighteningly realistic 

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“Do Astronauts Masturbate in Space?” is a blistering two-hander based on the relationship between Lily (played by Briony Martha) and Gareth (played by Zak Reay-Barry). An unexpected pregnancy coming five years into their relationship ignites a series of events, as due to government legislation, they now have to prove their fitness to be parents so that they can continue the pregnancy. We see them challenged by various disembodied voices of a doctor and government officials (a terrifyingly efficient Torya Winters), culminating in a week-long residential course, where their relationship is put to the test. 

The performances of Lily and Gareth are outstanding, and feeling their relationship rooted in authenticity cements the dystopian nature of the rest of the play. The spiraling and vociferous Lily complements the more stoic and withholding Gareth, but with deep layers of affection and humour. It’s a very physical play, especially when depicting the retreat, where the masculine partners are sent to hunt and gather, while the feminine ones are baking. This is counterbalanced with the ever-watchful eye and proving questions of The Voice, seemingly set on undermining their relationship and questioning how much you know about your partner. 

This is all performed in very close quarters, with the audience arranged around three sides of the small stage, and whilst the performers are at pains to provide different angles, it’s difficult to see everything all the time. There are next to no props – the set dressed with two light-up cubes, and using elements of the costumes, but this is remarkably effective, and strangely moving at times, and our focus never shifts from the couple.    

“Do Astronauts Masturbate in Space?” beautifully combines comedic elements with the deeper questions about privilege, social norms, control and right to autonomy. It’s frighteningly believable in today’s cultural climate that this scenario could occur in the not-so distant future, and it’s a chilling prospect for us all.   

Do Astronauts Masturbate in Space? runs until 23 August, at 19:50 Greenside @ Riddles Court. Get your tickets from https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/do-astronauts-masturbate-in-space