★★★★
We now live in an era where the nostalgia for ‘Britain’ as this great nation, has morphed into a disturbing, mouth-frothing war-cry of SOVEREINTY. Since Brexit, this ethno-nationalism has been emboldened, and it’s frightening. Enter TSarzi (the stage-name of writer/performer Sarah Sharp) dressed as a faded Britannia, sitting in a bedsit with only the radio for company. TSarzi’s absurdist multi-instrumental performance of songs covers everything from Arthurian myth to the altar of the Cenotaph.
Her songs are operatic anthems that sum-up the horrors of our past and the fears we endure in the present. The loop-pedalling synth beat poet sections were a particular stand-out. It’s very reminiscent of Derek Jarman’s Jubilee, another absurdist take on the state of our nation.
TSarzi has been described as a ‘Brechtian Kate Bush’, and it’s no wonder, her singing is siren like and the subject matter compelling and unique.
The hour is not an easy ride, it’s challenging and not just an entertaining romp. The show forces you to confront where we are at now, and that’s not a comfortable place.
Gone to the Dogs is a worthwhile experience, one where you are transported into a musical hall of mirrors, its disorienting yet fascinating. We hope TSarzi takes her immense musical talent and shines it on other complex and difficult subjects, it would be great to see them tackle Climate Change, for instance. TSarzi’s bleak and troubling vision is a must-see, especially for anyone who has become comfortable with the direction the UK (or should I say England) seems to be heading.
Gone to the Dogs is on at Gilded Balloon Teviot – Wine Bar, till the 28th August.
