Shotgunned @ Assembly George Square
Matt Anderson's romantic two-hander returns for a second run at the Edinburgh Fringe, reminding us of the messy, vulnerable nature of young relationships
Shotgunned tracks the highs and lows in a relationship between Dylan and Ros, portrayed sensitively and charmingly by Fraser Allan Hogg and Lorna Panton. It does this with an effective and economical approach to structure and character which makes for an engaging hour at the theatre. Not only are the characters well-sketched via credible dialogue and throughlines of character subtleties, but the non-linear structure feels justified and, for the most part, satisfyingly executed. Each scene feels well-considered and constructed, the dramatic and comedic beats are generally hit, and we really care about Dylan and Ros’s dynamic.
The comparisons to Nick Payne's Constellations and Sam Steiner's Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons are well-earned. Shotgunned maybe even goes further than these non-linear two-handers which treat time with a kind of circularity. There is a central dramatic event which provides the time-jumping narrative architecture a kind of weight. It grounds us nicely and builds intrigue. Anderson skillfully teases what this could be with a very piecemeal approach to storytelling, until the event – the reason for the nerve endings of tension we are shown throughout – is eloquently clarified.
It is after this reveal that the play begins to drag slightly and muddle its way towards various plot beats and climaxes – a particular high point being a lip-sync and breakdance between Dylan and Ros to 'Dance With U' by Staring in Spaces. This moment is layered with the unspoken and unsatisfied longings the play is largely interested in – a moment of genuine coalition between the emotional arc of the show and its underlying themes rising nicely to the surface.
The writing ultimately glows with emotional nuances and a clinical view of the messiness, vulnerability and desires which define young relationships. Dylan is a recognisably awkward and bumbling nerd with big dreams; Ros is a little less defined – she admits to not having a "passion" – but certainly shares in Dylan’s insatiable need for connection. Both need one another in a specific time and space. They may not be a regular Romeo and Juliet, but this is hardly Anderson’s point. Love can be janky, quiet and fleeting, but that does not make it any less powerful. Shotgunned is a witty and gentle reminder of this.
Shotgunned, Assembly Square Gardens (Studio Five), until 30 Aug (not 24), 3.10pm, £13.50-14.50