In A Thousand Pieces

In this exploration of sex slavery in 21st-century Britain, The Paper Birds proves itself an accomplished company, capable of devising highly inventive and relevant work. By examining the notions held about Britain and the attitudes of the populace, this show makes clear that this oft-overlooked subject is as much a part of our society as fish and chips or cream tea, however much we might prefer to think otherwise.

Turning a political message into theatre of quiet beauty is an impressive achievement. At no point is stagecraft sacrificed for sanctimony. The production is wonderfully realised, combining live music, video projections, detailed movement and a flawless ensemble performance. Clearly, the company has researched this subject in detail, collecting various interviews with the public to create a picture of Britain that is familiar, comic and horrifying.

Video footage of people attempting to draw the map of Europe painfully illustrates our continued island mentality, while recorded voiceovers show our opinions on other countries to be a mixture of humorous stereotypes and complete ignorance. One sole complaint was that repeated references to England irked – in many cases Britain was more apt.

In the midst of these lively voices is depicted the traumatic isolation of the abused women. Their silence speaks volumes. In a Thousand Pieces may leave the viewers shattered, but it is absorbing, essential and surprisingly lovely viewing.