THEATRE

Bad Dog

thespace on North Bridge (Venue 36)

There are some potentially delicious hints of jet-black comedy here. After devout Catholic Grace discovers that her catatonic, blood-spattered sister may have murdered a neighbourhood pet, she cajoles her off the sofa – revealing a cushion embroidered with two picturesque pooches. Sadly, this and other opportunities for levity are foregone in favour of unremitting bleakness and protracted silences. Both actors offer fine, fully committed performances, but the grim material is ultimately unrewarding.

NIKI BOYLE

Until 18 August. Today 1:40pm..