To Do Lists review (Edinburgh Fringe)

[AD – PR invite*]

★★★★★

Lists and the associated safety and control that comes with them are the themes of Amy Lever’s To Do Lists which is currently at the Edinburgh Fringe. Featuring themes of obsession and grief, this coming-of-age play sees the performer take a look back through her own life so far, exploring what inspired consistent list making, what happens when you don’t complete them or the structure fails you and the wider societal pressure on young people to be successful. With direction by Giulia Grillo, this new play from Rainy Day Theatre shares some heartbreaking and important topics in such a captivating way, so much so that it led me to consider my own evolution of list making.

First impressions

From the minute that I walked into The Green at Pleasance Courtyard, I was immediately drawn to the colourful set design that is inspired by list pads and post-it notes. A projector screen initially provides disclaimer information before transitioning to some colourful and vibrant creative captioning. Accessible in both its structure and underlying themes, this is a first-person piece of theatre that offers the audience a front-row seat into the central character of Amy’s innermost thoughts, split between distinct periods of her life.

Transparent reflection

There is a youthful perspective to the narrative, which subtly changes as Lever progresses through the years from age 9 up to age 21. The performer really knows how to draw audiences into her storytelling, perfectly capturing the drama of primary school antics right the way through to the pressure of taking the 11+ exam. As the play progresses, goals, lists and plans become a lifeline and we see Amy pour everything into trying to get into the University of Cambridge. Friendships fracture, stress rises and unexpected sadness in the family threatens Amy’s safe space which is order and structure. Throughout the show the audience is on an emotional rollercoaster with the character and this is all down to the commendable direction, brilliant writing and both raw and humorous performance.

Must-see new writing at this year’s Fringe

Looking beyond the Fringe, this play has such a promising future. Lever speaks from the heart in this reflective piece that will resonate with anyone who has ever looked to lists and order as a distraction when processing the difficult parts of life. To Do Lists is a fusion of Lever’s personal story and a wider commentary on society, with the relatable narrative having universal strength and the power to make audiences feel really seen. This is an utterly powerful piece of theatre. You can catch the show at The Green at Pleasance Courtyard (venue 33) until 31st August (not 17th and 26th). Performances start daily at 17:15, with tickets available via the festival’s website.

*My ticket for To Do Lists was gifted in exchange for an unbiased review.