A tender story that educates and entertains
As the show ended, a chorus of “Awws” rang from the audience. This fully showcases the sweetness of this story about two young people finding connection in a time of struggle. It is incredibly endearing.
This is, in no small part, to the actors Hadsan Mohamud (who also wrote the piece) as Najma, and Mohamed Hashi as Zakariya. The two have a clear chemistry from the first moment they appear together, and the titular crush is evident. What is really impressive is how well the two young actors portray the depth of the pain and highs of joy within a short moment of each other. The flip between emotions flawlessly and get the audience to root for them from the outset.
The play follows these two receiving treatment for eating disorders. This is an important play in this regards, as it teaches the audience about the troubles faced when dealing with these issues. It is particularly interesting when looking at eating disorders and how they are perceived by different cultures and genders. It was shocking to see the stigma that the male character felt, unable to confide in anyone what he was going through, as well as both characters dealing with the impact it has on their religious beliefs. There is a wonderful conversation that deals with fasting and the issues that come from the characters’ illnesses. The effect that this has on these characters is profound, and enthralling to learn.
The show is well directed by Alena Sahota, who gets some good performances out of the cast, and hits the beats of the piece well. Sahota manages to bring out the sweet moments and counteract them with times of strife and hardship. The play does however, falter slightly in its static nature. The action is predominantly seated, being in a waiting room, but that does affect the pacing. Maybe there is room for more movement and use of the, admittedly small, space. The script itself is also quite stop, start. Each scene feels like another beginning. While this ably showcases the nature of the illness and the feeling of being stuck in a waiting room, in a perpetual loop never getting anywhere, it stunts the development of the story and the characters. If this play can find a way to develop a more continuous flow, it will be even more impactful.
As it is, this is a charming and interesting piece of theatre, showcasing young talent that will surely be around for years to come.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/crush
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: Clover at Underbelly, Bristo Square
Dates: 5th – 30th August (Not 17th)
Time: 15.55
Ticket prices: August 9–11, 14–16, 21–23, 28–30: £12.50/£11.50 concessions
August 12–13, 18–20, 24–27: £11.50/£10.50 concessions
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 14+ (Guideline)