swell
In 2014, residents of Fairbourne were watching their local news when they found out they were to be Britain's first climate refugees, with their town set to be decommissioned and depopulated by 2054. Housing prices dropped over night, insurance disappeared, and life savings were lost in the chaos.
Swell follows the story of two siblings caught in the purgatory of a fictional but analogous town, ready to be abandoned. Swell asks: how are we able to understand ourselves when the places we call home crumble around us?
First performed at Underbelly Cowgate during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe on August 4th 2022.
reviews
★★★★★
EdFringe Review
”Foreman may be showing us the new tool of climate consciousness, and it is almost impossible to look away”
★★★★
Flora Gosling
”With writing and performances this strong, Swell is worth seeing”
★★★★
Fringe Biscuit
”Flawlessly cast”
Recommended Show
Fringe Review
”A very good piece of drama”
★★★★★
Theatre Weekly
”Foreman is starting to emerge as one of the most exciting playwrights of this generation.”
★★★★
Binge Fringe
”It might just be the most important thing you see this year”
★★★★
Three Weeks
”We need more stories like this”
★★★★
Mix Up Theatre
”Intriguing and ultimately devastating”
Audience Reviews from EdFringe.com
“I saw this show yesterday. I don't usually leave reviews but I felt compelled to write one because this show was THAT good. The three actors commanded the space powerfully and emotively and I was transported to 'Swell' leaving the busy Cowgate outside the theatre doors. The playwright Tom Foreman is exceptionally gifted and his script was poetical at points. I will be following his journey to see what he creates next. An extremely talented, professional company - this team will all go very far. A must-see!”
— Gary Stone
“A truly mesmerising hour of theatre. A damning look in to the future, showcasing the impact of climate crisis but from a human angle, challenging the audience to think through the repercussions of global warming in a way they may not have done before. The acting was superb, the script intelligent and - at times - hilarious. It seems to zoom in and zoom out, such that it unpacks the impact of whole communities, whilst creating space for the impact on individuals and families, and the complexity of the human experience. An absolute must-see.”
— Ben MacMichael
“What an enjoyable rollercoaster of an hour - engaging storyline about consequences of coastal erosion on a small seaside town . Great cast and some really emotive acting told through the eyes of the three residents. The script writing is ferociously sharp and robust and plays out well. You will feel part of their tragic story as the tale unravels. It's very thought provoking and immensely enjoyable - book your tickets now before they all sell out!”
— Gary Dubell
“Absolute must see, brilliant writing and captivating acting demonstrating the devastating effects of climate change on a small community. Max and Rachel's performance stand out - these two will be stars very soon! They are supported brilliantly by Karan and Tom's script is just so beautifully crafted. 5 Star.”
— David
“I was gripped by this play from start to finish - original, convincing and captivating story, great staging & pace, energy & involvement from the young cast. I was in tears at the end. So glad I managed to squeeze this in as my last show of this year’s trip! I urge you to go and see one its last few performances too.”
— Melanie
“Superb! An absolute must watch piece of small, beautiful theatre. Everything in the show, from start to finish, was exceptional. The razor sharp script, delivered by incredible actors, had me immersed in the stunning narrative.
Easily the best thing I've seen at the fringe!
Cannot wait to see what they do next.”
— Andrew Jenkins
“Surely this is what the fringe should be about . A vehicle for young writers and performers. Swell is packed with talent. A very strong cast of three bring the young playwright's words to life in an hour that flashes by. Tom Foreman is a writer of great potential and considerable achievement. See this show , it is a gem.”
— Paul Bryan
“Powerful storyline and performances and a sobering and thought-provoking presentation that has had me mulling and digesting over the following days. Strong themes relieved by some humour and fine acting. Very relevant in highlighting the chaos to come as the climate crisis bites, not in floods and physical trauma but in the breakdown of civilisation. A must see.”
— Jane Wilson-Howarth
“Brilliant. Amazing writing, original concept, and captivating acting. The script never feels lopsided towards one characters morals or the other— everyone is treated with depth! Built a beautifully intricate and detailed world in an almost set-less show. I’m going to be thinking about this show for a verrrry long time. Everyone should see this.”
— Eric F
“This show is class!! A play with a gripping plot and some excellent actors that navigate their way through an extremely well written and hard hitting script. Throw yourself into the world of Swell and be immersed in the little town! Don’t miss it.”
— Christy
“Great play, brilliantly acted, showing how easily society can break down in face of a crisis. It is not climate change so much as human responses to climate change that are revealed as so threatening.”
— Purnima
“Fantastic show! We were transported to the town of Swell through a very talented cast. I was with them on their journey. Wonderful script and enjoyed by all in our family (kids aged 12 and 13 also loved it).”
— Sophie Tait
“Absolutely phenomenal. Genius concept, perfectly executed with outstanding cast. Would definitely see again.”
— Sapphire
“A totally original, intelligently written piece of theatre and beautifully acted by the two leads! A thought provoking, enjoyable show!”
— C
“Such a relevant and important piece. Incredibly talented cast and captivating story. Absolute must see! 10/10”
— Katrin
“A beautifully written show with wonderfully talented actors and a thought provoking message - definitely a must see!”
— Annie
“Beautifully written, superb acting. A powerful show tackling prevalent issues - a real thinker!! 1000% recommend”
— Aidan Wilkins
“Thoroughly entertaining theatre, with great performances throughout, excellent use of the venue space and a strong underlying plot. Well worth a viewing!”
— Danny
“Five stars, do go, great script, great acting, moving and challenging :)”
— Susie Hicks
….
“Effective and moving show. Highly recommended.”