Lost In The Wind

Bristol-based company Lost Spectacles’ first production is one of those uniquely theatrical experiences that leaves one not quite knowing what they’ve seen, but feeling privileged to have seen it. Almost silently and using props no more complicated than a wind machine, a load of newspaper and a couple of foam tubes, the performers create a fantastic surreal world, complete with silly yet sophisticated humour and some truly spellbinding setpieces.

The plot, such as there is one, involves a man who loses his map in a hurricane and wanders in to a land populated by four strange characters. There follows a series of bizarre encounters, including an impassioned argument about a potato, a romantic liaison between a bearded washerwoman and an invisible man, and a funky barbershop number that uses only the names of various root vegetables.

All five of the cast are excellent physical performers with a sure grasp of comic timing, who create spectacles that are by turns funny, graceful and eye-popping. It seems that barely any of the visual possibilities offered by the minimal stage and props are left unexplored.

There are a few minutes of stage-time where not much seems to be happening, but this can probably be put down to first night teething troubles; in any case, it’s only noticeable because the company is clearly so intent on filling every moment with something special. Amongst the many new theatre companies vying for your attention at this year’s Fringe, Lost Spectacles offers a strong, bracing gust of fresh air.