The Edge of Our Bodies, Gate Theatre

The Edge of Our Bodies marks the opening of the new Who Does She Think She is? season at the Gate. This theatre's last two years have been intensely political in focus, so this perhaps signals a turn towards more contemplative work; but we're sure we can expect plenty of bite from one of London's smallest but most vibrant venues.

Adam Rapp's play is a twisty monologue delivered entirely by 16 year-old Bernadette. After discovering she is pregnant she runs away from home and school, diving into the grimy streets and strip-lights of New York City. But whilst we might expect either shocking tragedy or the whimsical treatment of films such as Juno, instead Rapp gives us an atmospheric adventure full of emotional depth and complexity.

The great power of this play lies in the voice of the central character, who transports us along her journey and into her deepest thoughts. We think the Gate is the perfect space for a show from one of America's most exciting contemporary playwrights; the intimacy of the space places a spotlight upon the writing itself, and its power to transport us imaginatively. And Rapp has certainly demonstrated this power, as a finalist in the Pultizer Prize and winning countless other awards.

Rising stage star Shannon Tarbet will play Bernadette. She's been pegged as 'one to watch' since her first stage role in Spur of the Moment at the Royal Court, which saw her nominated for a 'Best Newcomer' Award. The 22 year old has gone on to charm the critics with stand-out performances in Hampstead Theatre's Rapture, Blister Burn and the The Shed's Hotel. We're excited to see her take on this meaty monologue. 

Don't miss the first UK outing of what could fast turn into a cult hit. Indeed, if this play  will remind you of anything it is J.D. Salinger's famous exploration of adolescence, The Catcher in the Rye. Except through the eyes of a woman. Seeing as the show's Artistic Director Christopher Haydon's huge hit of 2013, Grounded was also a one-woman show written by a man, we feel the theatre is onto a winning streak.