A absurdist piece about the tension between following your creative dreams and finding ways to survive in the arts, TOAST is a impactful and at times surreal examination of navigating soulless systems, and what happens when the script runs out.
Simply but skilfully staged, TOAST puts Jude Green’s character centre stage as they experience a series of phone interactions with the benefits system, their agency and potential employers. The trials of navigating Universal Credit and a tax return when you have an inconsistent income is certainly not a new concept, but there is something particularly fresh and insightful about Green’s take, anchored as it is in lived experience and within the realities of the Cost of Living Crisis.
Pitted against a range of bureaucrats, given life and nuance by incredibly versatile voice artist Jack Wakely, Green struggles to explain their circumstances and balance the books. The stark fact that they are not choosing between heating and eating, but finding both are out of reach, makes TOAST deeply confronting, despite the humour that runs through it. With the stereotype of the “starving artist” running headlong into reality, how do we actually improve accessibility for working class creatives who do not have financial support?
The strength of both the writing and performances lift this play to the next level, aided greatly by Debbie Hannan’s superb direction. With the cyclical nature of the format it is difficult for the piece to find a satisfying ending, but there are plenty of unexpected turns and stylistic surprises in store.
By Deborah Klayman
TOAST plays at Summerhall, Edinburgh until August 31st 2026.