| 21 August 2011
Paddy Cunneen has outdone himself, writing and directing a tale of urban warfare in modern Glasgow that finds its unlikely roots in Greek tragedy. Fleeto tells the gritty story of the consequences of the association between masculinity and violence for one misguided Glaswegian youth, Mackie. When his friend is stabbed and his face left in ribbons, Mackie joins a gang and takes revenge on a stranger, only to find himself confronted later by his victim’s grieving mother.
Drawing inspiration from the epics of Homer and Aeschylus, Cunneen proves that Scottish drama can be ambitious and powerful, and that the Greek tragic form still finds pertinence in today’s audience. Stunning performances from Jordan McCurrach in the lead role of Mackie and Steven McNicoll as the Police Officer keep the audience engrossed, while the driving rhythms of blank verse only add to the dramatic effect. The emotions in this play boil and blister: certain scenes are almost unbearable to watch, while others, particularly the confrontation scene, are eloquent and understated.
Fleeto showcases Scottish talent whilst tackling issues that our nation would rather sidestep. Glasgow’s surgeons’ reputation for putting bodies back together after being slashed by knives is hardly to be envied, but Cunneen bravely shows us why this situation has arisen, without resorting to stereotypes. A moving and unsettling piece.
Fleeto, Pleasance Courtyard, Showing on the 4th, 6th, 9th, 11th, 13th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th & 29th August, 2.00pm
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