Set in the remote wilderness of Utah, 855-FOR-TRUTH follows an unexpected meeting between Meredith, a young woman raised in a strict religious community, and Isaac, a teenage scientist working on an undisclosed project. As they navigate their differences, their conversations reveal deep-seated fears, personal trauma, and conflicting worldviews. What begins as a simple encounter gradually unravels into something more unsettling, forcing both characters to question what they know to be true.
The production establishes a strong atmosphere, with trees, dirt, and leaves creating a tangible sense of place. However, the staging itself is inconsistent—practical issues like the creaking theatre door break immersion, and certain set elements, like a supposedly “magical” pollution-free tree, feel more confusing than symbolic. The lighting choices work well to enhance tension, and the sound design, while effective in setting the mood, sometimes feels repetitive rather than impactful.
The script is where the play falters the most. Dialogue swings between overly simplistic and strangely complex, making the characters’ interactions feel uneven. Repeated phrases, like “unclean”, emphasise Meredith’s upbringing but grow tedious over time. Isaac’s scientific work remains vague, and his eventual shift in belief feels abrupt, making it difficult to fully invest in his transformation.
That being said, the acting is a highlight. Both performers bring emotional weight to their roles, grounding the play’s more abstract ideas in real human reactions. Meredith’s childlike mannerisms make sense given her background, though they occasionally make her dynamic with Isaac feel uncomfortable. Isaac’s descent into paranoia is well-acted, even if the script doesn’t fully justify his shift. The second act, meant to intensify the psychological tension, instead slows down due to lengthy pauses and monologues that stretch the pacing.
The premise is compelling, and the play raises interesting questions about belief and influence. However, some of the storytelling choices feel a little clumsy. The cult elements rely on familiar tropes—prophecy, purity codes, and an ominous “sacrament”—without adding much complexity. The romance between Meredith and Isaac progresses naturally through conversation, but at times, it feels slightly uncomfortable given Meredith’s childlike demeanour. The second act takes a more psychological turn, but Isaac’s descent into paranoia feels abrupt, making his transformation less convincing.
Venue: The Hope Theatre, Islington
Running time: Approximately 2 hours with a 15 min interval