Free Run

Free running, in its purest form, is a celebration of complete freedom of movement. Its creator, Sebastien Foucan, saw the discipline as a mode of self-expression, a form of acrobatics that allowed runners to defy urban obstacles in the pursuit of their "own way". Considering this liberating philosophy, it is somewhat perplexing that Free Run takes place within the restricted confines of the Udderbelly.

To be fair to 3Run—the troupe of free runners behind the show—they have made every effort to break, vault and karate kick through any semblance of a fourth wall. And there’s no disputing their abilities. Set against an arresting digital backdrop of London’s great urban expanse, the group perform all manner of breathtaking stunts, using every angle of the arena (including above, behind and between the audience) to leap from obstacle to obstacle, showcasing aesthetic as well as athletic prowess.

But although the physics of Free Run are nothing short of incredible, the show itself is flawed. The runners may be athletes, but they’re certainly not actors. Unfortunately, in an attempt to bulk up the show, the producers have decided to introduce some storytelling and this culminates in a bizarre figurative battle between what appears to be good—essentially a bunch of topless runners—and evil: some more topless runners, but this time wearing ludicrous black American Football helmets.     

As a spectacle, Free Run is both polished and impressive. However, as a 50-minute attempt at Fringe theatre, it’s at least half an hour too long.