Hope This Helps! at theSpace @ Venue 45 Review
Set in the Scottish Highlands at a technology detox retreat, Hope This Helps! delves into the odd relationship we have with our phones and how it affects the way we interact with each other.
The script by Lex Joyce and Jess Ferrier puts the relationships of its characters at the forefront, letting their dynamics develop in both negative and positive ways. It has to be said that each character felt like they had achieved something by the closing scene, their arcs not completed, but it lets the audience leave with the knowledge that it may not be right now, but they will all be okay. My only letdown with the script was the little use of the dad storyline; it felt only there as a placeholder for much of the piece. But I understand with fringe shows being shorter, certain beats have to take priority and would hope, if developed into a longer piece would be more prominent.
The strongest element of the show is without a doubt its cast, never overshadowing one another. Instead being able to bounce off each other, which works impressively well during activity scenes and I do wish there was another one, as it didn’t just prove the cast’s talent but also a way to provide some character development that isn’t just standing around talking. This, in turn, helped with an issue I have noticed more recently, which is filling your space, something this particular production thrives in. They have created a space that feels less comfortable, and the vibes are completely off from what they should be.
Shark Bait Theatre’s Hope This Helps! is a chaotically yet zenful look at the time and space we give to technology instead of communicating and spending time with those we love.
Hope This Helps! plays at theSpace @ Venue 45 until 29 August.
★★★★
Written by Kerry for Theatre and Tonic, August 2026.
