Balfour Reparations

Aug 22 2025 | By Suzanne O'Brien More

★★★★☆ Thought-provoking

Summerhall (Venue 26): Wed 13 – Mon 25 Aug 2025
Review by Suzanne O’Brien

Balfour Reparations, created by Farah Saleh and playing Sunmmerhall for the last two weeks of the Fringe, imagines a hypothetical scenario that raises questions about Britain’s colonial legacy in Palestine and its role in the country’s past, present, and future.

Set in 2045, the audience becomes part of an evaluation committee tasked with reflecting on a government apology letter written 20 years earlier. This fictitious letter offers an apology for the Balfour Declaration and promises reparations to the Palestinian people.

Farah Saleh in Balfour Reparations Pic Brian Hartley.

The piece centres on Arthur James Balfour’s 1917 declaration, which promised Palestine as a home for Jewish people while explicitly denying political rights to the Palestinians. This historical act has had lasting consequences, making the performance deeply political and timely.

It is a performance lecture that relies heavily on audience participation. Upon entry, each audience member receives a copy of the letter and is invited to share thoughts, frustrations, and reflections on the reparations offered, culminating in the sharing of personal action points at the end. Farah Saleh’s presence, patience, and commitment create a welcoming space that encourages deep engagement and willingness to participate.

The audience’s contributions don’t simply fade away; their voices are woven into the soundtrack of Saleh’s dance, which is interpretive, intricate and moving. This live sound mixing is skilfully done by Lucas Chih-Peng Kao. The piece also incorporates archival footage alongside newly shot video imagining reparations being carried out, creating a powerful dialogue between past and future that is visually arresting and thought-provoking.

a starting point for deeper understanding

For those interested in or passionate about Palestine, its colonial history, and the ongoing crises, this piece offers a rare opportunity to vocalise grievances, hopes, and action plans in an open environment. For those unfamiliar with Arthur Balfour, the 1917 declaration or the history of Palestine, it provides valuable historical insight and a starting point for deeper understanding.

This isn’t a conventional piece of theatre with a fixed narrative. The concept offers a compelling way to spark meaningful conversations by connecting history, the present moment, and the future. Since over half of the production is shaped by audience responses, no two performances will ever be the same. If you attend, be prepared to take part fully and experience a unique, evolving dialogue.

Running time: One hour (no interval).
Summerhall (TechCube 0), 1 Summerhall EH9 1PL (Venue 26).
Wednesday 13 – Mondat 25 August 2025.
Daily: 4.30pm.
Tickets and details: Book here on EdFringe.com.
Book here on EdFest.com.*