We Live by the Sea
A Fringe Encore: Patch of Blue's devised theater production explores the life of an autistic girl as she connects with a boy who changes her world forever. A hit at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
'We Live By the Sea' tells the story of Katy, who lives on the coast with her sister Hannah and her imaginary dog, Paul Williams. Ostracized by the children at her school because of her differences, Katy is lonely and longs for someone to talk to. When she meets Ryan, a teenager from the city running away from his own problems, she recognizes something of herself in him, and starts to learn what it is to be a friend. The production features playful visual storytelling and a live electronic score.
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- Already closed
- Soho Playhouse Main Stage (Soho/Tribeca)
Cast & Creatives (11)
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Reviews (40)
4 Critics' Reviews
for a previous production "An inventive and well-judged piece…It feels like everything has been very carefully considered. Alex Howarth’s production is so light and tight that you can forgive it the occasional sidestep into fairy-lit whimsy...There are no easy answers or magic cures. The standard of performance is high all-round, but Alex Brain’s performance as Katy is incredible, sustained, rich and funny, her timing exact. Informative without being worthy, this a really appealing piece. Lovely stuff." Full Review
for a previous production "The modestly masterful storytelling is warmly delivered by intelligent performances. Beating loudly at its heart, Alex Brain–playing Katy–is breathtaking. It is rare to see such an enchanting example of autism depicted so sensitively…Sea-deep and honestly interpreted research renders 'We Live by the Sea' an informative and special immersion into the lives of those shaped by autism…This is my Fringe gem, a treasure that I will bury in the burning cockles of my heart." Full Review
for a previous production "The show is a well constructed, wonderfully conceived, and cleverly executed piece…There are elements of the piece that are underwhelming. The projection design fails to add significantly to the show, and certain elements of the writing...Despite this, the piece is a truly unique piece of theatre…The show manages to craft a truly credible central character, offering a window into living with autism...Coupled with fantastic performances, the show really is captivating." Full Review
for a previous production "It's feel good and funny, honest and above all completely believable…Alex Brain’s performance in the central role is mesmerizing…'We Live by the Sea' is an outstanding piece of theatre with a big heart and carefully honed performances. I cried freely throughout as did the rest of the audience. It's rare for theatre to connect in such a way and Patch of Blue has created something very raw and beautiful." Full Review
36 Members' Reviews
See it if you like intimate, heartwarming, simple stories that are relevant to the effect we can have on one other life in this world.
Don't see it if low-budget shows or don't want to see a show about an emotionally challenged young person.
See it if You like to hear a great story. You can embrace an autistic situation. You want to smile and also have your heart touched. Great performance
Don't see it if You are not comfortable with autism. If you don't want to smile and feel emotional
See it if beautiful,whimsical play about autism and human connections,told with grace, love and humor.Superb cast,beautiful music,great writing.Bravo!
Don't see it if you are not ready for intense emotions.
See it if you are passionate about art for the differently abled; you enjoy pieces that seamlessly join text and music
Don't see it if you need to see a linear story or something focused on text; you enjoy large-budget productions
See it if you can make your way through a heavy Scottish accent to delve into the inner workings of an autistic young woman; you will come out happy.
Don't see it if autism is very close to home, and it is an uncomfortable subject for you. You cannot stand to listen carefully to get all the nuances.
Also The acting was so good that, at the end of the show, I was unsure whet... Read more Read less
See it if You enjoy well acted, powerful emotional stories. Non linear, but great story and well told. It's both funny and heartwarming and emotional
Don't see it if You can't deal with issues of disability. Enjoy more linear plays.
See it if You want to see a real, raw, emotional story of an autistic girl
Don't see it if You can't handle or dislike heavy shows
See it if you know someone who is autistic, want to support young actors supporting an important cause, you enjoy a "small" play well done.
Don't see it if for you,the most important part of a play is the script; this had many weaknesses;you like plays with lots of action; you're allergic to sap
See it if You enjoy shows that make you feel on a deeply emotional level without being manipulative. An honest look at life.
Don't see it if You can't relate to other people's lives and points of view and see that we all occupy the same space.
See it if you enjoy dramas mixed with humor. Great cast. However the story didn't grab me. I wanted to like it more.
Don't see it if thick English accents annoy you.
See it if you want to see fresh young storytelling onstage that is extremely impactful.
Don't see it if you don't like intimate settings.
See it if You like minimal scenic design and strong, funny writing. You liked Curious Incident but wished it were better (this show fits the bill)
Don't see it if You are overwhelmed by overlapping or loud audio/text. You want a big budget Broadway show.
See it if You would enjoy a play that looks deeply into autism, but does so in a funny, clever and engaging manner.
Don't see it if You are looking for something light and easy. This play absorbs you!
See it if I hope it makes a full off broadway run.
Don't see it if You need a big spectacle show.
See it if you enjoy beautiful storytelling, plays that feature innovative set design, and quality acting.
Don't see it if you prefer large-scale productions, or if you get overwhelmed by occasional flashing lights/loud noises.
See it if Outstanding THEATER. Able to better comprehend what life is for an autistic girl and her sister
Don't see it if You have trouble with accents or want a light entertaining night out
See it if you liked Curious Incident. This is less slick, but much more touching. From start to finish, you'll be engaged. WLBS is "a lovely thing."
Don't see it if you hate loud noises or you get discouraged trying to decipher heavy accents. The acting and story are really good . So do see it.
See it if You want a life affirming theatrical experience. This show is innovative and brilliant and beautiful and so so real. Very emotional.
Don't see it if You aren't able to handle shows which treat autism with honesty. You want a show that doesn't make you think or reflect.
See it if you want insight into young adult with autism and the people in her life. Exquisitely acted. Engaging and transforming.
Don't see it if If a realistic portrayal of autism is not for you.
See it if You'll be transported for a quick 70 mins, you find joy in small things, want touching family/friend dynamics. This is something special.
Don't see it if You want easy solutions, don't want to see an unflinching portrayal of autism, can't give yourself over to the experience, small production.
Also Alex Brain playing 15 yo Katie, a loving, creative person with autism,... Read more Read less
See it if you love superb writing/acting/staging all come together to deliver a powerful story and message, in an intimate low-budget setting.
Don't see it if you want lavish settings and costumes, or you are not intrigued by the idea of the main character being severely autistic.
See it if You like intimate theatre, breaking the fourth wall, stunning performances, live music, and possibly even crying a little bit.
Don't see it if You want something flashy and high-tech, you're looking for comedy.
See it if If you enjoy a heartwarming story of family and of living with social challenges.
Don't see it if you are not interested in seeing characters who have difficulty with social interaction and who are on the spectrum of autism.
Also Excellent actors, especially the lead.
See it if You like dramatic work done in a small environment by a talented cast.
Don't see it if You are looking for a musical.
See it if You want to experience an intense, thoughtful, gut-wrenching, hopeful view of someone with autism.
Don't see it if The play is so good that parts are hard to watch.I left with a sick feeling in my gut -a testament to the great staging, acting, and writing