Man Or Bear theatre review: Harrowing, sobering reality
Powerfully showing the widespread reality of gender-based violence, this play brings to light the resilience and strength of three generations of women
.jpg)
Inspired by but never specifically referencing the 2024 social media question about who women would rather be alone in the woods with, Man Or Bear roots the premise in real life. Three women (teenage, thirtysomething and middle-aged) attempt to navigate a world where the unpredictability of men can indeed be as life threatening as facing up to a grizzly.
Paige has finally plucked up the courage to leave Sam, a ‘good man’ who mistakes coercive control for love and care. Her daughter Angel has been forced to move too, plunging her into traumatic new-school dynamics, while friend and landlady Connie is trying a different sexuality on for size, despite the remonstrations of her church. As they try to get on with their lives, transitioning into a hopeful new era, the difficult men on their periphery (ex-partner, classmate, fellow worshiper) start to close in.
Writer Sarah Hehir and director Ursula Martinez weave the bear analogy into the narrative with clever subtlety (no spoilers here), silently commenting that while not all men are dangerous (far from it), it can sometimes be hard to know the level of danger you’re encountering. The friendship and love binding these three women together is powerful, but despite their inner emotional strength, they’re forced to look over their shoulder, fearful of falling foul to a different kind of strength. Man Or Bear doesn’t come up with an answer as the question is too big. But it does shine a light on the reality of many women’s lives, none of whom are living in the woods.
Man Or Bear, Summerhall, until 30 August, 1.45pm; picture: Hugo Glendinning.