Badgers Podcast Review Explores Supernatural Disappearance

Malaika Kegode's "Badgers" is a supernatural narrative centered on the perplexing disappearance of a maudlin folk singer, presented at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh. The play is framed by Kegode's reflections on the power and selection of stories, a meta-commentary that some might find superfluous given the vibrant storytelling landscape of a festival city. The core of "Badgers" delves into the investigation undertaken by Meles Costas, a true-crime podcaster whose professional qualifications are questioned, and who grapples with the legacy of a highly accomplished, terminally ill mother. Kegode weaves elements of gothic fairytale into the narrative, incorporating folk songs with purported dark-magic properties, themes of human-to-animal transmutation, and a subtle undercurrent of witchcraft. The production is scheduled to run at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh until August 30. Following its Edinburgh run, "Badgers" will move to the Theatre Royal Plymouth from September 2 to 5, and then to the Bristol Old Vic from September 8 to 12. The play's exploration of a mysterious disappearance, combined with supernatural and fairytale motifs, positions it as a unique entry in the true-crime genre, inviting the audience to engage with the narrative's darker, more mystical dimensions. The investigation by Meles Costas serves as the narrative engine, driving the audience through the unfolding mystery and the character's personal struggles. The integration of folk music and folklore adds a layer of cultural depth, suggesting that the story draws inspiration from traditional narratives and beliefs. The gothic atmosphere is further enhanced by the hints of witchcraft, creating a sense of unease and intrigue. The dual focus on the external mystery of the disappearance and the internal conflicts of the protagonist, Meles Costas, provides a complex character study within the supernatural framework. The play's structure, with Kegode's framing device, aims to highlight the act of storytelling itself, prompting consideration of why certain stories capture our attention and resonate more deeply than others. The choice to focus on a folk singer's disappearance, a seemingly ordinary event imbued with extraordinary circumstances, allows for an exploration of the hidden depths within everyday life and the allure of the unknown. The production's tour across multiple venues in the UK indicates a broader reach and an opportunity for diverse audiences to experience this distinctive blend of true crime and supernatural elements.