As we enter, Jack is already waiting in an airport departures lounge, soon to be joined by his new wife, Kirsty. They are on their way to their honeymoon. That is, if they manage to keep the airport from getting evacuated... You see, they had been trusted to look after a small suitcase by an unnamed elderly gentleman who had promised not to be long. With time ticking by, they grow increasingly suspicious, and after considering all possible explanations convince themselves that they had unwittingly trusted a terrorist, and that what they have beside them is a security threat. As events unfold, the history of the couple is revealed: their weaknesses and insecurities show, and cracks in the relationship become apparent. Will they manage snap out of their own bickering and find a solution, or will they get themselves into more trouble?The concept behind Excess Baggage is very interesting, and the script is crisp, witty and complete with a quirky humour which the audience loved. The story unfolds gradually, building up the anticipation. This is, however, where the weakness of the play lies. It never quite manages to quench the thirst which the first half of the play generates. The punch that should have been there seems to get diluted in the pool of vices that the play wants to address. Terrorism, social and gender inequalities, dishonesty, racism, drug abuse – not much is left out, and there just is not enough room. This is a shame considering that the acting is extremely convincing, the role of each character justified and the overall production well-made. Excess Baggage is genuinely interesting and funny, with the potential to be much more. All it seems to need to do, aptly, is let go of some of what’s pulling it down.
