Written by Sam MacGregor
A sharp – but still in need of developing – look into the realities we know to be true about the NHS
Reviewed by Amber Spooner
Bunker Two at Pleasance Courtyard
30th Jul – 25th Aug
Tickets: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/hold-the-line
3 STARS
Based on Sam Macgregor’s experience working at a NHS 111 call centre, Hold the Line is a horrifying and tragic look at the UK’s public health system. The story follows Gary – a 111 call centre advisor whose assessment results in the death of a patient. MacGregegor exposes the unreasonable pressure and working conditions of NHS staff and the inherent flaws of seeing people as corporate metrics. It’s uncomfortable to watch.
Both Gary – (played by MacGregor) and performer Gabi Chanova (who absolutely nails every part they play) show what we know to be true about the NHS: it’s understaffed and underfunded. You watch the characters struggle to provide effective care in this broken system and it’s easy to see how mistakes are made.
MacGregor’s writing does a really good job of humanising call centre workers who are normally faceless and hidden behind lines of red tape. While it is well written there are moments where the scenes drag on, making some sections feel flat and repetitive. There’s also a dance break in the middle which feels unnecessary and takes you out of the story for the duration. I would love to see this back next year with further development
Find all the shows on offer at the  Edinburgh Fringe Festival for 2025 here
