Harry Mould’s debut play is an entertaining and thought-provoking exploration of a historical detail about the Samaritans’ policy of accepting calls from “telephone masturbators” between 1972 and 1987. The play delves into questions about sex, danger, exploitation, acceptance, and what constitutes a cry for help, all while maintaining a humorous tone.
Set in the early 1970s, the play follows two women, Anne and Karen, who volunteer at the Samaritans. Anne, the experienced volunteer, has learned to tolerate indecent calls, while Karen, the youngest volunteer, is passionate about feminism and challenges the ethics of accepting such calls. As they grapple with their own reasons for volunteering and the loneliness of their callers, the play becomes a sweet comedy about acceptance and humanity.
The production, directed by Ben Occhipinti, skillfully navigates the complexities of the subject matter without passing judgment on the characters. Designer Natalie Fern creates an authentic setting with Formica, dungarees, and orange floor tiles, evoking the 1970s era.
Overall, Mould’s play offers a humorous and insightful look at a lesser-known aspect of Samaritans’ history, exploring themes of connection, compassion, and the human need for acceptance. The play is currently showing at the Pitlochry festival theatre until September 18th and will be at the Traverse in Edinburgh from November 13th to 16th.
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