At a time when prison sentencing and rehabilitation are facing hugely controversial reforms it is timely that Release should focus on the fate of three ex-prisoners who face the pressures of coping with life on the other side of the prison gates.
The three accomplished actors give stellar high energy and gritty performances. It is strikingly staged with a dynamic soundscape and impressive projections and lighting.
Their struggle to stay 'straight' is heart-rendering with friends wanting to tempt Kyle back into drug dealing. Becky is desperate to find work but becoming more frustrated by the constant rejections when prospective employers find out about her prison sentence and Hitesh has cut himself off from his family in Bangalore and is determined to complete his master's degree.
This was fine, assured acting from a cast who multi-role with confidence. It is a moving, forceful production strongly directed by Nancy Hirst.