The Bengsons’ latest production, Ohio, makes a compelling return to London’s Young Vic theatre after a critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This indie-folk musical weaves an intimate, autobiographical narrative that explores themes of faith, hearing loss, and personal transformation. Clocking in at a concise 75 minutes, Ohio draws the audience into Shaun Bengson’s complex journey—from his upbringing as the son of a pastor in a religious commune in the American Midwest, to his gradual loss of faith in organised religion, paralleled by his experience of hearing loss. The show’s minimal yet effective staging—featuring monitors, a laptop with a loop station, a projector, and a rug shaped like the state of Ohio—complements the deeply personal story told through music and storytelling. As noted by reviewers, captions play a vital role, enhancing accessibility and audience engagement, seamlessly integrated into the performance rather than serving as mere afterthoughts.

The storytelling in Ohio is predominantly led by Abigail Bengson, Shaun’s wife and artistic partner, whose vocal performance has been described as breathtaking and rare. Abigail's presence on stage is marked by an authentic expression of her autistic identity, which she openly references at the outset, explaining how her tics contribute to the raw and intimate atmosphere of the show. The Bengsons’ music merges elements of witchy folk reminiscent of Florence + the Machine’s early work with earthy and existential lyricism. Their sound, achieved with just guitar and looping technology, is layered and textured, incorporating vocal techniques from murmurs to primal howling, creating an evocative sonic landscape. Despite grappling with heavy themes such as mortality and spirituality, the piece avoids didacticism, instead embracing doubt and uncertainty with a compelling sense of humour and charm. Abigail’s characterization of her own Judaism as “an allergy to certainty” encapsulates the show’s nuanced take on belief and the human condition.

Critics have praised Ohio for its originality and emotional depth. The Times awarded the production a five-star review, highlighting its poetic exploration of grief and disability, while other commentators have noted the show’s unique approach to themes rarely broached with such honesty and humour. One review described it as “the most poetic take on the deaf/death joke” they had ever encountered, applauding the Bengsons for presenting a factual rather than pitiful perspective on hearing loss and grief. The chemistry and mutual support between Abigail and Shaun on stage also shine through, underscoring the personal nature of the project and enhancing its emotional resonance.

Produced by Francesca Moody Productions, known for acclaimed titles such as Fleabag, Ohio benefits from a seasoned production team that adds to its pedigree, enhancing its profile within the theatre community. Directed by Caitlin Sullivan, the show combines autobiographical storytelling, evocative visuals, and creative captioning to deliver a powerful and accessible theatrical experience. Following its runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and Bristol Old Vic, Ohio continues its journey at the Young Vic Theatre until late October, inviting audiences to engage with its deeply affecting and thought-provoking narrative.

The combination of personal truth, innovative accessibility, and compelling musical storytelling makes Ohio a standout production, celebrating resilience and hope amid loss. Its appeal extends beyond typical folk music or theatrical audiences, inviting those interested in authentic, heartfelt explorations of identity, faith, and communication to partake in a truly unique theatrical event.

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Source: Noah Wire Services