Sam Ward's "As Far As We Know" Premieres at Summerhall

Sam Ward's solo performance, "As Far As We Know," premiered at Summerhall in Edinburgh, presenting a narrative centered on a woman who discovers mysterious holes appearing in her garden. The play, developed by Ward's company YESYESNONO, features Ward himself as the performer, portraying a character who begins by welcoming the audience and reading from a folder of papers. As the performance progresses, the speed at which he reads accelerates significantly, suggesting the immense memory feat required to internalize the script. This rapid delivery is underscored by a percussive score composed by Carmel Smickersgill, which is described as possessing both jazz-like freedom and a sense of urgency. The lighting design, by Han Sayles, dynamically closes in on Ward as his storytelling intensifies, further emphasizing the escalating pace of the narrative. The production is staged at Summerhall, a venue known for hosting a diverse range of artistic performances during the Edinburgh Festival. The show's run at Summerhall was scheduled to continue until August 31st, offering audiences an opportunity to engage with this unique theatrical experience. The Guardian's review highlights the play's exploration of a potentially enigmatic story, questioning whether the narrative of garden holes is a simple tale or something more profound. The performance aims to create a dynamic and engaging theatrical event through its combination of spoken word, music, and visual design. The company YESYESNONO, founded by Sam Ward, is known for its experimental and often fast-paced theatrical productions. The play's title, "As Far As We Know," hints at themes of uncertainty and limited understanding, which may be reflected in the unfolding mystery of the garden holes. The review suggests that the intensity of Ward's performance and the accompanying technical elements are key to the show's impact. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where this performance is featured, is the world's largest arts festival, providing a platform for numerous independent artists and companies to showcase their work. The critical reception of "As Far As We Know" points to a performance that is both technically demanding and thematically intriguing, leaving audiences to ponder the deeper meanings within the narrative. The use of a solo performer reading at an accelerating pace is a deliberate artistic choice, designed to create a specific effect on the audience and to explore the boundaries of performance and memory. The collaboration between Sam Ward, Carmel Smickersgill for music, and Han Sayles for lighting, creates a multi-layered sensory experience. The review implies that the success of the piece hinges on the execution of these elements and the compelling nature of the story being told. The narrative's progression from a seemingly simple premise to a potentially complex exploration is a hallmark of engaging storytelling. The performance's duration and venue are specific details that anchor it within the context of the Edinburgh Festival.