Fragments Of Ash

Since the end of World War Two, Britain has been been involved in over 21 military conflicts. Fragments of Ash boldly confronts the human pain inflicted by a nation almost constantly at war, and examines what it would take to turn a bereaved mother into a suicide bomber.

Told from the perspective of war widow Eleanor Spence, the play examines the interlocking stories of a series of characters whose lives have been affected by recent military history. As her story gathers pace, it draws in characters from the Falklands, The Troubles in Northern Ireland and the war in Afghanistan, before culminating in a shockingly memorable final scene.

Part monologue, part seamless ensemble performance, much of the play's power lies in its bold manipulation of character and performance space. The central storyline is accompanied by tautly choreographed dance played out by actors constantly switching roles. Writer/director Terry Victor harnesses this ebb and flow of physical movement in order to orchestrate the play's pace and emotional tone while fully utilising the stage. This fluid directorial approach lends it a uniquely composite feel, subtly indicative of its central theme: the universality of human grief.

However, the emotional core is to be found in a series of thoughtful and convincing performances, with the fevered depiction of Eleanor standing out as the bedrock of the piece. Powerfully acted and brilliantly realised, it packs the emotional and intellectual weight of a much longer play into one emotionally exhausting hour of theatre.