Run, Rebel review

Kaur is effervescent as Amber, conveying joy in her running and in her friendships with chakra-cleansing Tara (Hannah Millward), and with the very sweet David (Kiran Raywilliams). She reminds us that “we all have our own story to tell” and, in a recurring metatheatrical joke, begs the audience to let her relive her most exultant moments “just once more”, and we’re happy to oblige. Movement director Kuldip Singh-Barmi vividly captures the restlessness of being a teenager and the nervous excitement of the running scenes.  

The concrete slope of Debbie Duru’s set design evokes both a running track and a chilly home life, while video by Daniel Denton features a sinister recurring motif of deadheading roses and brings to life everyday activities. Composer Niraj Chag and sound designer Yvonne Gilbert build up emotional momentum and the invasive thoughts in Amber’s mind that amass until they can longer be contained. Particularly moving is the way in which Amber helps her mother Surinder (Asha Kingsley) take a step towards independence by teaching her to read and write. There are many ways to rebel, and the momentum and perseverance required to reach the finishing line are perhaps the biggest challenge.