ED FRINGE 2023 REVIEW | Pitch, November Theatre Company
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Reviewer - Emmie
*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
The FA’s website reads ‘An individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity should never be a barrier to participating in, and enjoying, our national sport’ however, the barriers are still there for this community across the world, not just in England. In November Theatre company’s production, Pitch, they discuss this topic and score big on captivating the queer experience,
Using audio storytelling, pulsating choreography and slick stage design results in a production with a huge impact. Pitch focuses on the experiences of five characters who are all part of Muddy Studs, a queer-identifying grassroots football team based in London. In such a short space of time, this production deals with how each character identifies their relationship with football, whilst often using flashbacks to help them tell their story. One of the stories which really stood out to me was that one of the players retired from pursuing his professional career because he was called a ‘fag’ in the changing rooms.
The integration of a pulsating soundtrack, particularly ‘Freed from Desire’ which is a definitive football anthem these days was a smart move. The clever use of audio storytelling helps Pitch to deliver a bolder understanding of the queer community’s journey. Pitch packed heart, creativity and an unforgettable portrayal of allyship.
At Pleasance Above, Pleasance Courtyard 19-22, 24-28 as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
