Sisters Saskia (Alexandra O’Neill) and Sara (Florence Lace-Evans) reunite in Sara’s flat which is also their late mother’s former home. They’re here for her memorial. Sara appears in pyjamas, nestled within a den or tentlike structure that she’s built to the side of the stage. Saskia is joined by her long-term partner Mark (Jonas Moore), who tries to lighten the mood with awkward jokes about his new obsession with archery, his nut allergy and his inability to spell – slightly random (!) but effective in giving the audience a good laugh.

Saskia comes across as angry and emotionally guarded, seemingly struggling to process her grief. Sara, by contrast, displays a more chaotic, unhinged energy – particularly evident when we learn she’s formed a strong attachment to a squirrel named Gerald, now living in her bedroom. At first, the characters feel a touch amplified, their personalities almost caricatured, which initially made it difficult for me to connect with them. However, as the play progresses and we learn more about each sister’s experience of losing their mother and how they’ve coped, the performances begin to feel more human, authentic and impactful. This shift is especially true for Saskia, who, as mentioned, spends much of the piece tightly wound and confrontational. A moving monologue towards the end, however, peels back her layers and reveals a more vulnerable, nuanced side.

YES, WE’RE RELATED is a play where the emotions build and catch up with you by the end. It weaves moments of humour and poignancy to explore the complexity of grief, all the while demonstrating the enduring power of sisterly love.

Catch YES, WE’RE RELATED at Big Belly at Underbelly, Cowgate until 24^th Aug. Tickets available here!

Photos are not my own.