Box [M] Edinburgh Fringe Review 2026 ★★★★★

Date: 10th August
Time: 8.25pm
Venue: TheSpace Triplex
Running time:
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 Stars)
Reviewed by: Jo Sansom

Two siblings navigate their changing relationship with their own identities and each other; an exploration of transgender identity and sibling relationships through dance and acrobatics.

Flying Rabbit Circus invite us to witness the bond between siblings… and all the trials and tensions that try and break it.

Performed by Landyn Endo and Os Roxas, this dynamic circus duo have travelled from San Francisco to show at this year’s Fringe. With a simple set, centring around a white box that is used as both a powerful metaphor for restrictive societal norms as well as a piece of playful gymnastics equipment. Spotlights and torches are used to dramatic effect in the name of searching for meaning and connection in a complex relationship.

The show follows the siblings as they move through life, starting in the simplicity of childhood and continuing through the difficult teenage and young adult years. As the two performers build tension through a combination of lyrical dance sequences, strong acrobatic moves and collaborative, playful circus, we are shown how societal expectations of gender representation take a toll on the pair.

What happens to a relationship when the ground shifts and two brothers are no longer two brothers? The siblings keep returning to the playful fighting and teasing of their youth, chasing the simplicity and innocence of childhood while both becoming increasingly frustrated by building external pressures.

As a wordless performance, the music is used to provide the emotional language and helps to root each new section in a specific place and time. I found the use of sound and music very moving and it helped to build intensity and immerse the audience in the experience.

My favourite parts of the show were by far the beautiful lyrical dance sequences that were used to show a freedom of expression when the outside world had been forgotten for a moment.

The show asks us to consider: where and when is it acceptable to be the full version of ourselves?

The koi carp is the central motif for the show and references the Japanese traditional celebration, a day to show pride in having sons. The koi seemed to be the key link back to tradition, family and culture… which was seen at times as both a wonderful gift and a heavy burden depending on the age of the duo in each interaction.

As trans rights are continually attacked and limited, both in America and here in the UK, it is more important than ever to continue to share trans experiences and stories… and every story is different. This particular story doesn’t just take us inside the exploration of trans identity through childhood but places that experience within the wider context of family ties, culture and tradition.

Anyone with a sibling will enjoy the relationship dynamics created by the two performers… the petty fights, the tentative union and ultimately a cherished bond. The show is engaging and relatable and ultimately a joyous celebration of trans identity. Because the only honest answer to the question, “When and where is it acceptable to be the full version of ourselves?”, should be all the time and everywhere! Especially with the people who love us.

As with all relationships, Box (M) shows us that to honour a connection, we have to be willing to relearn each other and the relationship time and time again.

Tickets:  Box (M) – Edinburgh Festival Fringe