Reviewed by: The List
Review by Hannah Homburg | 11 March 2024
Burn it. is hidden treasure of this year’s Adelaide Fringe, delivering a window into the complexities of human relationships through a powerful and edgy script. Gritty and raw, actors Sian Dowler and Lydia Kuelsen have the audience in the palms of their hands, laughing one minute and crying the next. The story follows two best friends, both post-break up, who take a camping trip to escape their problems. But, as alcohol does what alcohol does best, things get messy and past traumas are dug up. Dowler and Kuelsen bounce off each other with perfect chemistry, and the on-the-nose dialogue of Kuelsen's script is used to their advantage. The show shines a light on many mental health issues but, most importantly, it highlights the intricacies of domestic violence and the lack of understanding surrounding the matter. The script is deeply relatable, occasionally uncomfortable, yet the audience takes comfort in feeling seen. The lighting rounds the show off; different colours express different moods and the lack of a spotlight makes us feel part of the story. The workings of relationships, romantic or otherwise, can be mysterious. Burn it. provides clarity with conviction.