Blink

Phil Porter’s Blink is a sensitive and detailed love story. Performed by Fringe First-winners nabokov in association with the Soho Theatre, it’s a tender look at isolation and the crippling effects of grief.

Jonah lives in a rural religious commune. When his mum dies, she leaves him with a small fortune, and he moves to Leytonstone in London. He rents the bottom floor in a house owned by Sophie, recently bereaved after her dad died from cancer. Although they’re neighbours, modern technology helps these two lonely souls connect, and through the next hour we’re made privy to the ups and downs of their curious and unsettling relationship.

We’re a long way through the play before Sophie and Jonah address a word to each other, such is their inexperience at human communication. The actors take turns to relate what’s going on to the audience and since so much of it is told rather than shown, the style can be alienating. But these are loveable characters and the cast of two is wonderful; Harry McEntire showing particular vulnerability as the shy and naive Jonah.

There’s great textural detail in the set too, which is made to look like an office in a garden, lined with furry green Ikea rugs for grass. It’s a vivid splash of colour that, despite the sadness inherent in its narrative, reflects the play’s bright, humorous spirit. Ultimately, Porter gives us an entirely sweet, satisfying and slightly unsettling romance with a painfully realistic ending.