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A Series of Unfortunate Breakups

A playful production about the pitfalls of young love that is more nostalgic than progressive
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A Series of Unfortunate Breakups

A playful production about the pitfalls of young love that is more nostalgic than progressive

Having sold out in London, Some Riot Theatre's playful production about young love has hit the Fringe. The comedy documents the wayward journeying of three couples, but the play is really about seven people that don't know themselves yet. That's okay when the lion's share are students, right?

A Series of Unfortunate Breakups is an accessible comedy that simply exudes youth. It riffs through recurrent break-up themes like starting university and cheating boyfriends with a typical set of youngsters at its heart: the good-looking dickhead, the nerd, the jock and the try-hard. As we're presented with each troubled couple, the others narrate with mime and choreographed movement.

One of the three narratives feels like an authentic break-up, but the others lack any actual emotional depth. Some Riot Theatre director and playwright Lucy Burke plays for laughs, rather than investing in serious drama. And while the laughs flow and this is a very agreeable show, its lightness can feel at odds with Burke's manifesto – to bridge the gap between university and the working world for students.

C nova, until 29 Aug (not 16), 7.30pm, £8.50–£10.50 (£6.50–£8.50).

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