The premise of Loos Loos is simple yet powerful: Freya and Lou are seventeen and share everything – body spray, the teachers’ green-biroed exasperations, and the messy, awkward beginnings of their sexuality. The play spotlights six weeks of their friendship, all unfolding in the toilets of their ordinary school – the one place they feel safe enough to truly be themselves. But the darker realities of the outside world press in. There’s a party, there’s an assault, and there’s the unspoken weight of revenge porn. What happens when you’re forced to confront something so huge before you even have the words to name it?
I was fortunate to catch this show online, and it’s striking how much the company has managed to pack in. The story flows clearly, with clever use of props and lighting helping to propel the action forward.
The subject matter is urgent and modern, tackling what two teenagers go through in a world that isn’t always kind. A simple divider and lighting shifts add dimension to the stage. That divider isn’t just practical – it feels symbolic too, representing both the closeness of the girls and the differences in their personalities.
There are standout moments: tender, quiet exchanges cut through by sharper bursts of dialogue, all punctuated by the sound of the school bell. The pacing works, the rhythm of the dialogue feels natural, and the production captures the everyday highs and lows of adolescence.
I could see Loos Loos working brilliantly on tour in schools and colleges – the themes are relevant, relatable, and conversation-starting.
Both actors gave good performances, convincingly embodying their characters. At times, though, I wished for more emotional depth and vulnerability – a little extra rawness would have lifted the performances from good to unforgettable.
The concept and script are excellent, tackling vital issues without flinching, and the creative team’s use of sound and music is subtle but effective.
Overall, Loos Loos is a strong piece of theatre that shines a light on experiences teenagers are facing right now. It’s impactful and thought-provoking, and with just a bit more emotional weight in performance, it has the potential to be truly outstanding.
Overall rating 4 Stars- A bold, timely drama that belongs in schools as much as on stage
Loos Loos | Edinburgh Festival Fringe
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