Paper Birds are back this year with a theatrical exploration into what it means, as a woman, to be other. In a strong verbatim style, three womens stories are brought to life through a mixture of storytelling, physical theatre and multi-media. Once again Paper Birds do not disappoint. Others is a joy to watch and although the execution is not always the slickest, you forgive this entirely due to the abundance of original and innovative ideas that are presented. The staging is imaginative and physical sequences are simple yet elegantly carried out, and this complements the unpredictable narrative. Jemma McDonnell, Kylie Walsh and Maryam Hamidi do a sterling job of theatricalising the stories of these different women, a particular highlight being their portrayal of the Western presumptions of what constitutes the life of an Iranian other. As always, Paper Birds work is politically charged but what is lovely about their work at this years fringe is the humour. McDonnell, Walsh and Hamidi are genuinely funny and this light hearted touch makes the subject matter all the more engaging. The only slight criticism would be the technical use of the feedback effect over the speakers. This doesnt really add anything to the piece and distracts a little from the superb stage performances. Nonetheless, this is an intelligent and humorous gem of a show and definitely worth a watch.
