Glass Places Review at the Dublin Fringe

Glass Places is a piece brimming with potential, but it falters in its final stretch. ⭐⭐⭐

Photo: Dominic O'Brien

Presented by Bluehouse Theatre Company, Glass Places tells the story of two lifelong friends: May, who works in a B&B near St Ciaran’s Holy Well, and April, who works at the Aquadom, the world’s largest free-standing aquarium. On December 16th, 2022, the Aquadom explodes, unleashing one million litres of water onto the streets of Berlin and killing fifteen hundred fish. In the aftermath, May and April struggle to piece their lives back together.

Broken into three acts, each has its own style. Act I is delivered almost entirely through song, with composer Sam Killian providing a hauntingly ethereal score. Iseult Deane’s script shines brightest in the first two acts, particularly in the poetic lyrics that carry much of the story’s emotional weight.

Act II builds to a powerful and moving conclusion that would have been the perfect ending. Instead, the addition of Act III feels laboured, extending the show beyond its natural close and diluting the impact.

The performances are a highlight. Megan McDonnell and Ellen Finnerty are powerhouses, delivering both exceptional vocals and acting. Under Dominic O’Brien’s direction, their strengths are used to full advantage, presenting some fantastic scenes that had me on the edge of my seat. Owen Clarke’s lighting design also deserves mention, creating atmospheres that enhance both the music and the storytelling.

However, the production begins to lose its way in the final act. What should feel profound instead tips into confusion, with the show stretching itself into an overly abstract attempt to provoke feeling. With such strong performances and an already powerful climax at the end of Act II, the additional scene feels unnecessary and overextended.

Glass Places is a work of clear promise; beautifully acted, lyrically rich, and visually striking. With a tighter structure and greater confidence in its natural ending, it could transform from a strong production into something truly unforgettable.

Disclaimer: I was invited to review this show on the 20th of September. My review was not influenced by this invitation!