The Day After the End of the World

It is rare to see a full-length play at FringeWorld, and I was pleased to see University Dramatic Society (UDS) mount this World Premiere Apocalypse play at the Midland Junction Arts Centre. Well written, and with a good cast, it’s great to see UDS back at Fringe and sharing their talents off campus.

Running about twenty minutes longer than its advertised 90 minutes, The Day After the End of the World follows six people, whom we gradually learn are inter-related, after it is announced that the world will end in 24 hours. The show features well-built sets designed by Rhys Healey, although perhaps in excess of what was needed - as the continual scene changes (though deftly executed by the crew) tended to break momentum. The set was lit with emotive and often intimate lighting designed by Lee Butterfield. Characters were well costumed by Lucy Coates and Tom Tasovac provided a clever and dynamic sound design.

Mother and daughter, Beth and Martha, were played with good teamwork by Sophie Burrows (Beth) and Danielle Crowe (Martha). Sophie had perhaps the most difficult job, playing older than her years and she did well, although I was disappointed that she dropped character and broke the fourth wall, in response to audience laughter (not directed at her). Danielle Crowe was believable as dark and confused teen Martha. 

Declan Marley as Steven trod a huge emotional journey and worked well with Jordy Littlewood-Johnson as Rob, a fine actor whom I would like to see improve his projection. 

I especially enjoyed the storyline with Josie McAllister’s Ally and Ari Range’s Will, bright students who know each other vaguely and who fall in love on what they expect to be their final day on earth. I loved Josie’s vulnerability and depth, while Ari Range, looking very much like a young Kirk Cameron, perfectly created the disappointing Will,

At times the fact that the director and writer were the same person showed, even though Maya Djurdjevic is obviously gifted in both. I wasn’t sure of the relationship between Ally and Martha, which may have been important, and the ending fell a bit flat. 

Overall, this was a production that showcased up and coming theatre makers with huge potential and I hope that they all continue to make good theatre.

Kimberley Shaw

Click here to read more Fringe World 2026 reviews.