When Theatre Becomes Testimony: Afloat Challenges, Moves, and Uplifts
Tonight’s performance of Afloat at the Liverpool Unity Theatre was a powerful testament to the potential of theatre as both social commentary and communal catharsis. Devised by director Phoebe McSweeney through a series of workshops with asylum seekers and those working alongside them, Afloat is a moving, dystopian vision that holds a mirror up to contemporary Britain—one that dares to ask: what if we were the ones forced to flee?
Set in a fictional city teetering under a right-wing government, the narrative follows the fracturing relationship between Angela, a Grey Party candidate (played with particular nuance and displaying a gift for comic timing by Frankie Gold) and Sam, a community worker aiding asylum seekers (a superb passionate performance by Eva Gaynor Smith). What begins as a clash of political ideologies gradually devolves into a chilling descent into authoritarianism, where even Angela is not immune to the regime she once supported. A Big Brother-style voice of the Party Leader echoes ominously throughout, evoking a sense of Orwellian dread.
Yet it’s the lived experience woven through the performance that hits hardest. Much of the script is drawn from verbatim testimony gathered during workshops, creating moments of striking honesty and vulnerability. When the ensemble cast speak of the asylum process, it’s with the weight of truth. The haunting metaphor of being on dry land but still drowning captures the prolonged limbo endured by those seeking refuge.
Visually and aurally compelling, the production incorporates stylised physical theatre and a haunting score by George Jenkins. Movement direction from Eli Randle and multilingual dialogue add depth and accessibility, reminding us that storytelling transcends borders and language. It’s all mesmerising stuff.
While rooted in political urgency, Afloat doesn’t abandon hope. Yes, it really breaks your heart at times, but moments of humour, warmth, and resilience shine through the darkness—whether in the defiance of protest or the quiet strength of community. The ending, subtle yet stirring, gestures toward the possibility of a new dawn.
Afloat is a great example of vibrant, vital, ensemble contemporary theatre. As it evolves, its mission remains clear: to challenge prejudice, amplify unheard voices, and spark meaningful conversation. Tonight’s standing ovation was not just for the performance, but for the people whose stories made it possible.
Afloat is more than theatre—it’s testimony, resistance, and a call for compassion. A call for humanity. Don’t miss it on its limited regional run. Essential theatre we can be proud of. Essential theatre we need.
Follow @afloat_theatre on Instagram for updates.
