Tag Archives: fringe

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 19th August 2024

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What’s in store for us in Edinburgh today?

Here’s the schedule for August 19th.

9:50 – When Vincent Met John, theSpace @ Niddry St. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Vincent died in 1890, John died in 1980, both of gunshot wounds to the chest. But imagine what might have happened had the two greatest artists of their time met? Five years before their deaths, both men went through profound change. Van Gogh renounced religious ambition, began to paint, and, despite arguments with antagonist Paul Gaugin, created his life’s masterworks. Lennon renounced sex, drugs and rock’n’roll, began five years seclusion and, despite arguments with antagonist Paul McCartney, created a son and his last album. This play takes place at their exact moment of crisis and decision.”

An early start for a play that confronts us with a fascinating comparison – Van Gogh v. Lennon. I’ve no idea where it’s going to take us, but I’m fascinated to find out.

11:35 – Crime and Punishment, theSpace on the Mile.

“In the sweltering heat of a Saint Petersburg summer, impoverished student Raskolnikov wrestles with the thoughts of the good he could do were he able to lay hands on the wealth of an unscrupulous old woman. Dostoyevsky’s seminal masterpiece of psychological torment sees Raskolnikov unravel as his guilt and conscience collide with the reality of his murderous dreams. Praise for writer/director Rebecca Vines’ previous works: ‘Chilling… brilliant… powerful’ ***** (BroadwayBaby.com). ‘A cut above’ **** (TheWeeReview.co.uk). ‘Power and strength’ **** (BritishTheatreGuide.info).”

Somehow I managed to read Crime and Punishment when I was 17 and I have absolutely no idea how I managed it because I certainly couldn’t now. But I love the idea of squeezing Raskolnikov’s story into forty minutes, and if this is done well it could be brilliant.

13:50 – Michael Porter – Love and Brain Damage, Just the Tonic Nucleus.

“Michael sheds light on the everyday challenges of his condition, from the struggles of memory loss and impulse control to the comical mishaps that ensue when navigating social interactions. Whether it’s forgetting where he parked his car (he doesn’t drive) or unintentionally blurting out inappropriate remarks, Michael’s adventures are sure to leave audiences in stitches. From finding himself on the wrong path surrounded by the wrong people, to facing the harsh realities of death and prison, Michael’s journey is one of resilience, growth, strength and, ultimately, love.”

For a comedy show, this sounds like it could be quite a challenging experience. I’m looking forward to hearing Michael talk about his life and adventures.

16:00 – Galahad Takes a Bath, Zoo Southside.

“’I got very little, little to no media training, so… Sorry!’ Sir Galahad the Pure, Knight of the Round Table, son of Lancelot the Brave, is taking a bath. Even the chosen one needs a break sometimes, okay? But long soaks in the bath can lead to painful questions, and the cleaner Galahad gets, the dirtier he becomes. In this darkly comedic show about sex, jobs, and the Holy Grail, by the time Galahad gets out, he might not want to be so Pure anymore.”

This sounds like a delightfully ridiculous set-up. It was the pure nonsense of it that appealed. I’m expecting Galahad to use the hour as a free therapy session. Let’s see how it turns out!

18:00 – 1 Moment in Time, theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall.

“In his brand new, thought-provoking show, magician and mind illusionist Sean Alexander reflects on the defining moments in time that shape each and every one of us. With jaw dropping magic throughout, each instance intertwined with powerful metaphors and storytelling, this show is unlike anything else. Discover your moments in time all over again… ‘You are incredible, I will have you attend the palace’ (HRH Princess Michael of Kent). ‘Incredibly talented’ (Stephen Mulhern). ‘I love magic that tells a story and I really like you’ (Simon Cowell).”

I’ve seen a little of Sean Alexander’s work online and it looks very impressive, so I’m hoping for a breathtaking fifty minutes of amazement.

20:15 – I Did Something I Shouldn’t Have…, theSpace on the Mile.

“16 year-old Sean Parker has never known his Dad and wants to change that. His brothers are unenthusiastic about his plans… Undeterred and egged on by his best friend, Sean successfully makes contact with and meets with his Dad… but at what cost? This reunion carries risks and potential danger that may affect all their lives resulting in them never being the same again…”

Those moments in one’s life when one makes a big decision – there’s no going back after it. That’s what I’m expecting here, a strong and powerful examination of the reunion to end all reunions.

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Nina Rose Carlin: Seeking Representation, The Grim, With All My Fondest Love, and The Dreamer – Live

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Nina Rose Carlin: Seeking Representation, TheSpace at Surgeons’ Hall.

3-stars

Nina Rose Carlin seeks the path to Hollywood stardom by following a list of six simple rules guaranteed to see you make it big in Tinseltown; unfortunately, none of them seem to work. From not knowing which Los Angeles airport to land in, to selling her soul to an AI version of herself, surely there must be a way for Nina to become a star and avoid the existential dread that (apparently) all actors face! Nina Rose Carlin commands the stage with a blend of Hollywood pizzazz and out-of-place smalltown girl failure, looking every inch a star and with an amazing voice to boot. In fact, the song interludes are the best part of the show; reflective, tuneful, and heartfelt. Some of the humour doesn’t quite land, mainly because of the use of American references that most British audiences simply wouldn’t recognise. I’d love to see her do something more – I reckon she could nail Sondheim.

The Grim, Underbelly Bristo Square.

4-stars

The body of the late Jackie “Guillotine” Gallagher is next on the slab at the undertakers to be measured for his coffin; but this simple task involves a little more of a challenge than those undertakers, Rob and Shaun, were expecting. The “Grim” of the title is an Irish folklore apparition that takes the form of a huge black dog with red glowing eyes; see one, and you’ll be dead before long. Part ghost story, part comedy thriller, this terrific new play by Edmund Morris involves voices, revenge and a bit of blood too. Very well acted on a tiny, odd-shaped stage, it’s full of surprises – just remember to share your sweeties next time.

With All My Fondest Love, Greenside @ George Street.

4-stars

In the attic are boxes and boxes of old love letters, diaries, train tickets, photographs, records, and even cricket trophies; all the detritus of lives gone by. Noah Wild traces the early days of his grandparents’ first meetings, their letters to each other, and their hopes and dreams for a happy future together. Their letters are signed With All My Fondest Love. But relationships don’t always go the way we hope, and every good thing has to end at some point. But not before the birth of Neil, Noah’s father; or else Noah wouldn’t have come into this world! Noah, too, is still suffering from a relationship breakdown, being ghosted by his ex, and drawing parallels between his failed relationship and the gradually disintegrating relationship of his grandparents. None of this will be possible one hundred years on, where love letters are mere texts and train tickets are pdf’s. Elegantly and emotionally written, and full of recognisable Oxford references if you know that city well, Mr Wild delivers a powerful and heartfelt performance filled with all those tiny elements that go to make up the early days of a relationship. It tugs at all your emotions, and reminds us of someone we knew and loved.

The Dreamer – Live, Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows.

4-stars

No gimmicks, no sideshows; James Phelan starts his Dreamer show off straight away with a couple of extraordinary tricks, that involve predicting cards selected from a pack by different people from the audience, and piecing together various numbers chosen by random audience members to make a potentially very profitable sequence (I’ll say no more). As the show progresses, he involves the whole crowd in an experiment to see how well their imagination works (I’ll tell you now, mine was fairly rotten) and from that, he chooses a few audience members on whom he can practise a very special kind of mind control (again, I’ll say no more). James Phelan’s tricks defy all sense of logic and reason and leave you totally spellbound. I haven’t a clue as to how he did any of it – I just watched, agog, and in awe.

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 18th August 2024

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What’s in store for us in Edinburgh today?

Here’s the schedule for August 18th.

12:05 – I Am Your Tribute, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Voodoo Rooms. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“An interactive choose-your-own-adventure cabaret! Love them or hate them, tribute acts are here to stay. But they are not all the same… Join your sparkling host, Sarah-Louise Young, as she invites you to help her create the ultimate tribute to an act of your choosing! Along the way she’ll teach you the tricks of the trade, share her greatest hits and uncover the occasionally darker side of living in someone’s else’s shadow. Expect music, wigs and wonderment from the performer and co-creator of An Evening Without Kate Bush and Julie Madly Deeply.”

It’s always a delight to see Sarah-Louise Young, she’s been the mainstay at the touring Burlesque Show many times, and her Evening Without Kate Bush is a thing of definite beauty. Personally, I really love a Tribute Act, they can sometimes be better than the real thing!

14:05 – Beryl Cook: A Private View, Pleasance Courtyard.

“Beryl Cook’s joyful and comic paintings are known and loved throughout the world but little is known of the very private person behind them. In her fifth play on a painter, Kara Wilson has worked with the artist’s family to shed light on this intriguing figure. This play offers a rare glimpse into Beryl’s private thoughts as the audience witnesses her complete one of her bold and playful paintings.”

Who doesn’t love Beryl Cook’s paintings, with their cheeky insights into real lives full of character. But indeed, I know nothing of the painter herself, so this will be a fascinating glimpse into someone who’s brightened up all our lives at some point.

15:45 – please DON’T see our show, Just the Tonic at The Mash House.

“After a group of Zumba-lovers discover that it’s easier to book a Fringe venue than it is to hire out a rehearsal space in their local parish rooms, drastic measures must be taken. But when paying audience members turn up and the group are forced to provide them with a performance quick, all they have to offer is the disgraced, friendship-destroying production they performed at the Fringe five years prior. As the friends reprise their show, can their friendship survive the inevitable fallout triggered by the final performance of Duncan’s Big Affair?”

I love the premise of this play, and if it’s smartly written and entertainingly performed, this must be a winner.

17:45 – Milo Edwards: How Revolting! Sorry to Offend, Monkey Barrel Comedy.

“Milo is sick of it all. Disgusted with the state of things. No, thank you. Everything is getting worse. In 2023 he got a temporary tattoo on his arse. Award-winning comedian Milo Edwards returns to the fringe with a show about class, Britain, common decency and cum… and other revolting things that are best not talked about. ‘Edwards has quietly become one of the UK’s smartest, most vital stand-ups’ (Chortle.co.uk). ‘Near perfect’ ***** (TheWeeReview.com). ‘Milo Edwards’ comedy is a little like marmalade’ **** (BroadwayBaby.com). Best Show nominee Leicester Comedy Festival (2023 and 2024).”

We’ve not seen Milo Edwards before, so if he’s like marmalade, it could get a bit sticky but at least it’s not Marmite. Hoping for a good laugh!

19:45 – Sitting Pretty With Kitty, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Bannermans.

“Sitting Pretty is a camp, fun-filled, happy-hearted show with northern powerhouse, beautician, astrologist, therapist and cabaret performer, Kitty Cassis. There are tales from the salon, hilarious parody songs and the opportunity to experience a full emotional MOT. Straddling cabaret and comedy, Kitty finds nostalgic solutions to modern-day problems with a clown-inspired twist. Kitty is the ultimate party guest. ‘A vision in leopard print… glimpses of early Caroline Aherne…’ (Chortle.co.uk).”

I’ve seen a little of Kitty’s work online and she comes across as a complete hoot. I reckon this will be a very funny way to end the day.

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Lost Girl, A Montage of Monet, Naughty or Neurodiverse – Magic from Another Planet, Sam See: And I Can’t Feel at Home in this World Anymore, Shower Chair and Notice Box

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Lost Girl, Underbelly George Square.

The story of Birdy, a young Manchester woman of Arab-Jewish heritage, searching for her own identity as she grows up. When she discovers a photograph of her grandfather when he was a child, with a girl by his side, she finds out he had a twin sister who was kidnapped. Grandfather is unhappy at having this memory brought into the open. Whilst working as an archivist, she discovers the same photograph had been donated to the archive ten years earlier. But by whom? And is there more to discover about her family past? Written and performed by Amy Lever, the play examines a fascinating family dilemma, as Birdy blunders from one misjudgement to another in an attempt to make sense of her life and to come to terms with the past. For me, the piece was overperformed and could have benefited from more light and shade in the vocal characterisations and narrative approach. As a writer, however, Ms Lever shows great promise.

A Montage of Monet, Greenside at George Street.

4-stars

We all know about Monet’s waterlilies, and that he was the poster boy of the impressionist movement, but did you know that, in his youth, he was a great cartoonist, and when he was stationed in Algiers on National Service, he drew pictures of which he was immensely proud, but none of them has survived, sadly. And what do we know about his private life? Stephen Smith lifts the lid on Monet the Man in A Montage of Monet, Joan Greening’s wonderfully written dramatisation of his life and loves. As an old man, Monet is cantankerous, dependent on his daughter-in-law Blanche to look after him – which he resents. But looking back over his life, he recalls the professional jealousies, the painters he liked – he would only like someone if he knew he was a better painter than them – the places that inspired him, the women, the models; and also his constantly evolving styles of painting. Stephen Smith gives a superb performance as Monet, self-opinionated, grumpy, but hugely charismatic. A very satisfying show on many levels; and it’s educational as well as telling a great story!

Naughty or Neurodiverse – Magic from Another Planet (Angus Baskerville), TheSpace on The Mile.

4-stars

Angus Baskerville presents an hour of very impressive magic that he performs alongside recounting his own personal experiences of autism and ADHD, how they affected him at school, and how his aptitude for magic has changed his life. He involves the entire audience in some of his tricks, many of which reveal his excellent skills as a mentalist. I wouldn’t dream of spoiling the show for future audiences by giving you a run-down on what tricks he did, but there are a few tricks here that simply blow your mind. Presented with lively enthusiasm and a cheery friendliness, this is a perfect afternoon fix of magic for all the family.

Sam See: And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, Laughing Horse at the Counting House.

4-stars

Sam See’s new show, And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, is an account of how he decided to uproot from Singapore where he had lived for 30 years and start a new life in the UK. He explores the reasons why he felt he needed to leave, why he chose the UK over anywhere else, and what his hopes are for his new life in Britain. His is a fascinating story, both hilarious and sad; and his hugely likeable stage presence has us all rooting for him from the very beginning. A sparky, effervescent and dapper chap, Sam sets a tone of affable inclusivity, very much at odds with the homophobic experiences he had as a stand-up comic in Singapore. Only time will tell if he’s made the right move, but this most entertaining hour of comedy is a delightful mix of funny stories and personal confession.

Shower Chair, Greenside at George Street.

4-stars

When Ben Fallaci breaks his ankle and gets stuck in a geriatric shower chair, it’s about as low an ebb as his life can get; but from there, the only way is up. Shunned by male friends at school, Ben comforts himself by surrounding himself with girl pals, which influences all aspects of his social life. This is a masterfully told hour of one man’s development from childhood, a journey of self-discovery, best friends, toxic mates, and the abandonment of his greatest enemy. Very believable, frank, open and brave; but also very funny, positive and life-affirming.

Notice Box, Greenside at George Street.

4-stars

Sometimes when I see a show featuring someone described as a TikTok influencer or a viral sensation my heart sinks as I will almost certainly not know who the person is (while the rest of the audience are ecstatic fans), and the material will be aimed at someone at least forty years younger than me. But there are exceptions to every rule; and Simon Hennessy’s Notice Box is ideal for everyone who has a smartphone, with clever, quirky and hilarious takes on every aspect of phone dependency. From the carefree early days of social media, through the inability to use dating apps with dignity, to the embarrassment of having to share one’s Spotify Unwrapped list, this show is crammed with fantastic sketches and songs – with amusing visual accompaniments! Mr Hennessy has a very funny, hugely self-deprecating stage persona, and, although we were indeed forty years older than everyone else and probably the only people not to have heard of him, we absolutely loved his show. Way better than it has any right to be!

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 17th August 2024

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Only 4 shows today!

Here’s the schedule for August 17th.

11:35 – Nina Rose Carlin: Seeking Representation, theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“She’s an LA actress. Of course she knows her rising moon sign. Of course she can arrange dry-cleaning for a studio executive’s offspring in her sleep. Of course she takes her coffee with a splash of oat milk, and a heaping spoonful of existential dread. With live music, unhinged characters, and a bit of pixie dust (read: Ozempic) Seeking Representation is a one-woman show meets cabaret with a subversive sucker punch. From five-star Hollywood Fringe Festival award-winner and certified LA actress herself, Nina Rose Carlin!”

I confess I know nothing about Nina Rose Carlin but there was something about this description that piqued my curiosity!

13:15 – The Grim, Underbelly, Bristo Square.

“London, 1964. Shaun and Robert are trying to get through another shift as undertakers in the East End, but on the day they’re due to fit deceased murderer, Jackie Gallagher, for his coffin and with strange happenings afoot, all is not as it seems… Following the success of his ‘holler-out-loud funny’ (TheSmuReviews.co.uk) Fringe debut You’re Dead, Mate, award-winning playwright Edmund Morris is back with his latest, darkest comedy: The Grim.”

You’re Dead, Mate was one of the most intriguing and entertaining plays of last year’s Fringe, so I was keen to see what Edmund Morris has come up with for this year! This play sounds like it could have an element of Joe Orton to it – looking forward to finding out.

15:05 – With All My Fondest Love, Greenside @ George Street.

“How well can you know your own family? A grandson discovers the hidden secrets behind his grandparents’ ordinary yet curious marriage. Using real-life letters and diaries, Noah Wild struggles to fill in the blanks in his own family history, from burnt letters to unspoken loss. Struggling with his own heartbreak, he follows love through entwined past generations to reflect on how to live in the present. A true story discovered and retold, this moving new monologue explores how love and grief change across a lifetime. ‘Beautiful… a wonderful piece of theatre’ (WildRoseAndPearls.com).”

I have often wondered how, in this digital age, future generations will be able to look back and discover the secrets of the past; you can’t help but think finding old emails and texts won’t have the same allure. Noah Wild’s personal story sounds fascinating and if this is done well it could be a superb piece of theatre.

17:15 – The Dreamer – Live, Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows.

“’Magic is in his bones. Disbelief, flabbergasted, stunned’ ***** (Herald). It’s time to believe in magic… Award-winning magician James Phelan, infamous for jamming the BBC switchboard after correctly predicting the lottery, returns with this ground-breaking new magic show. Touching on his parents’ 12 year struggle with IVF, The Dreamer is a celebration of the impossible becoming possible. With magic unparalleled elsewhere at Fringe, this show will leave you aching with laughter and dizzy in disbelief. ‘One to watch in the world of magic’ **** (The List)”

With magic running through his veins – Paul Daniels was his uncle – I’m sure this will be a stunner of a show. Here’s hoping!

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Joe Wells: Daddy Autism, Lessons on Revolution, Trawled – When Adventure Becomes Survival, One Man Poe: The Black Cat and The Raven, Pete Heat: Bogus, and Ryan Cullen: Cullen in the Name Of!

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Joe Wells – Daddy Autism, PBH’s Free Fringe at the Banshee Labyrinth.

4-stars

Always a must-see on a visit to the Edinburgh Fringe, Joe Wells is back with Daddy Autism, a show inspired by both the fact that he and his wife are expecting their first baby, and that this has caused Joe to think more about his relationship with his own father, who seems to be on a one-way ticket to death. But this is in no way a morbid show! There’s some very recognisable comedy about what a nightmare a trip to the tip can be, and Joe’s dad has a very positive conclusion about the right way to deal with a situation when you don’t know the rules. A finely structured set with some first-rate callbacks; there are even a few glimpses of Joe’s old penchant for political comedy.

Lessons on Revolution, Summerhall.

4-stars

Revolutions don’t come along quite as often as buses, but arguably they are cyclical; primarily because the reasons for revolution never really go away. Sam Rees and Gabriele Uboldi meet as students who share a flat in London. They also have come up with Lessons in Revolution, an examination of the student protests in 1968, which started at the London School of Economics, and that unrest spread all around the world. There’s also a parallel account of Sam and Gab’s own situation, living in an HMO whose licence has been withdrawn because it’s not fit for habitation and is a fire hazard. Cleverly structured as a lecture rather than a play, this is an engagingly presented, entertainingly interactive production that gives us the facts behind those LSE protests and allows us to consider them and draw our own conclusions.

Trawled – When Adventure Becomes Survival, TheSpace at Venue 45.

3-stars

On a whim, Eoin Ryan signed up to work on a trawler in the Coral Sea, off Australia; having spent a lot of money enjoying the Aussie craic on a visit down under, he needed cash to fulfil his dream of flying to Peru and visiting Machu Picchu. Without any experience, but with the ability to bluff his way through an interview procedure, he ends up catching prawns on the high seas with Stu, Tom and Peter – who turn into the fishermen colleagues from hell. Tough work, bullying, the threat of violence and physical injury take him to the extremes of endurance; but he survives. Presenting his story as a one-man play, Mr Ryan expresses the sheer pain and exhaustion of his work and daily existence, and the frustrations of being imprisoned against his will. A gripping story told from personal experience; my only criticism would be that perhaps those feelings of peril, fear and agony could have been conveyed even more powerfully and viscerally.

One Man Poe: The Black Cat and The Raven, Greenside at Riddles Court.

4-stars

Stephen Smith brings his One Man Poe to the Fringe with two one-hour shows, each telling two of Poe’s most famous and eerie works. At the show we saw, he gave us his dramatization of The Black Cat and The Raven, both rivetingly performed in the darkness of Riddle’s Court Clover Studio. The Black Cat takes us into the world of an alcoholic who cannot control his anger and resentment when under the influence of drink; the family black cat bears the brunt of his villainy, but when his fury gets completely out of hand – can a cat take revenge? The Raven is one of Poe’s most famous poems, where a lover is confronted by a terrible truth: Quoth the raven, nevermore. Mr Smith commands our attention throughout and brings both life and terror to these portentous tales. Totally engrossing and unmissable, and a brilliant way of keeping Poe’s legacy alive for a new generation.

Pete Heat: Bogus, Pleasance Dome.

We all know that magic isn’t really magic… but Pete Heat makes it as near perfectly magical as possible in his new show, Bogus. A series of extraordinary tricks, using playing cards, smartphones, word games, star signs, and a cuddly toy; surely there isn’t such a thing as genuine mind reading, but if there is, then Mr H is the master of it. All presented with terrific humour by the tallest man in magic, his feats simply defy logic and understanding. Impossible to describe – you just have to see it!

Ryan Cullen: Cullen in the Name Of!, Underbelly Bristo Square.

4-stars

Ryan Cullen wastes no time trying to butter us up with some moderately nuanced jokes to start the gig; he goes straight for the jugular with topics that lesser comedians simply wouldn’t dare to consider. Delivered with amazing attack and confidence, I don’t think there’s a subject that Mr C wouldn’t touch – and, because his material is extremely funny, he gets away with it. Not for the easily offended; in fact, ideal for anyone who likes to get offended! This was our first exposure to Mr Cullen but certainly won’t be our last. Rapid, daredevilish comedy with superb and unexpectedly friendly crowd work. I loved it!

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 16th August 2024

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What’s on the slab today?

Here’s the schedule for August 16th.

11:50 – Lost Girl, Underbelly, George Square. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Birdy is 19. She’s too old to beat boys up in the playground or skip maths. But she wishes she wasn’t. Until, by chance, she unearths a family secret. One that’s been buried since 1930s Cairo. One that her grandfather would rather stay hidden. But for Birdy this might be her chance to right the wrongs of the past, and prove maybe she isn’t so useless after all? From award-winning playwright Amy Lever, Lost Girl is an exploration into Jewish-Arab heritage, the expectations of womanhood and family.”

Starting the day with what sounds like a serious and thought-provoking play; they say the sins of the fathers are visited upon the sons but no doubt it happens to the daughters too. Hoping for a well-written piece with some strong acting.

14:00 – A Montage of Monet, Greenside @ George Street.

“Monet’s paintings are world famous. We all know his water lilies, but how much do we know of the man? This new play explores his life and loves: his two marriages, the devastating death of his first wife, followed by the erratic behaviour of his lover and the desperation prompting his suicide attempt. We become privy to his thoughts on fellow impressionists and how he coped with his failing eyesight, which tormented him. It could have stopped him painting… or did it? This one-man montage of his life will be performed by award-winning actor Stephen Smith.”

Having seen Stephen Smith’s One Man Poe yesterday, he’s back with an insight into Monet; and I must say I’m looking forward to this a good deal as I don’t know much about Monet the Man.

15:50 – Naughty or Neurodiverse – Magic from Another Planet, theSpace on the Mile.

“Mind-reading and unbelievable trickery abound in this exploration of how autism and magic make anything possible, with rising star Angus Baskerville. Angus was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD at age 15, and his school years were a struggle. But, learning and performing magic has turned his life around and his first solo show at the Fringe delves into that journey. You’ll be asking yourself ‘how did he do that?!’ at every turn in this family-friendly show that brings the superpowers of neurodiversity to life.”

I’m all for getting to see young people in the early stages of their careers and I’m really looking forward to seeing Angus’ particular slant on magic in this show. Does neurodiversity equal superpowers? We’ll find out!

17:45 – Sam See: And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, Laughing Horse @ The Counting House.

“In December 2023, Sam See left his home country of Singapore and moved to London because clearly, now’s the best time. Why would anyone choose to leave the warm beauty of Asia and come to the damp and the cold of the UK? Find out about his world of propaganda movies, speculative fiction and Exception Promise, all in this hour of stand-up that’s not as long as the title of this show. ***** (OnTheMic.co.uk). **** (Fest). **** (TheAge.com.au).”

Sam See is a new name to me, but I’m intrigued by his back story and no doubt there’ll be some entertaining comparisons between luscious Singapore and the chilly UK!

20:50 – Shower Chair, Greenside @ George Street.

“Writer and comedian Ben Fallaci strips down and gets vulnerable while recounting how he lands broken and stuck in a geriatric shower chair. With irreverence and self-deprecation, Fallaci adds humour to a tale about a toxic friendship, slippery events, and a broken ankle. Where better to come clean than in the shower?”

An unusual premise for a play, but you can see how being stuck in a shower chair could be a metaphor for where you are in life. Hoping for some good writing and performing!

22:10 – Notice Box, Greenside @ George Street.

“Musical sketch comedian Simon Hennessy has over 360k followers and 30 million likes on social media, where viral characters like Remy and Adam from Bumble filmed on his smartphone have made him an internet sensation. Since going viral he has sold out venues across the UK and Ireland, but he remains chronically online. Be honest, so are you. Watch him perform his hour of songs, sketches, and stand-up all about the tantalising and terrifying world of the notice boxes in each of our pockets, then immediately return to the safety of your phones.”

Simon Hennessy is another new name to me and I confess I haven’t caught any of his online content, so this is hopefully a lucky punt. We are all heavily reliant on our notice boxes and I’m sure there’ll be lessons for us all in this hour!

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – Dummy in Diaspora, The Book of Mountains and Seas, Nerine Skinner: The Exorcism of Liz Truss, Leni’s Last Lament, Ghost Light, and MILF and the Mistress

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Dummy in Diaspora, Zoo Playground.

3-stars

Essa tells the story of his young life in America, his early understanding that he is gay, his first sexual encounters, his family life and other formative experiences. Esho Rasho, who also wrote the play, has an excellent stage presence and fully inhabits the character and gives a sensitive and powerful performance.

P.S. The performance we saw was ruined by engaging a stage photographer who, having moved some audience members out of their original seats so that she had a clear view of the stage, snapped away throughout the whole show so that it was impossible to concentrate. So when Essa was talking emotionally about his mother’s breast cancer, and even the death of the family cat, the noisy interruptions prevented the flow of emotion to reach the audience from the stage. I understand the desire to have production photos to promote the show for future audiences, but it is so disrespectful to the audience actually present.

The Book of Mountains and Seas, Pleasance Courtyard.

Archie and Andrew were going to get married, until, still young, Archie died a hero’s death saving others. Andrew is slowly getting over it, but his father, Raymond, is obsessed by Archie’s old Yelp account, the only thing that wasn’t deleted from Archie’s phone, where he reviewed 179 restaurants in New York. A fascinating and creative look at dealing with grief, it also raises very important issues about the social media presence of someone who has died, respect for their privacy after death, and continued relationships between the living who have no choice but to move on. This beautifully written and performed play touches the heart but is also full of laughter. Moving and inventive, yet still incredibly funny.

Nerine Skinner: The Exorcism of Liz Truss, Just the Tonic at the Caves.

Welcome to the ceremony where Nerrine Skinner will finally have the presence of Liz Truss exorcised from her body and brain. It’s a very amusing idea, and Ms Skinner does a terrific Liz Truss impersonation – her takes on Angela Rayner and Nadine Dorries are pretty good too. Plenty of audience participation if you’re sitting towards the front, so be warned! Sadly, although there is a lot of content here, most of it provokes the occasional wry chuckle rather than wholehearted laughter. I really wanted to enjoy this more than I did, but many of the comic ideas just peter out without achieving much.

Leni’s Last Lament, Assembly Rooms.

4-stars

If there are two cultural icons whom we still associate with Nazi Germany, all these years later, they are Marlene Dietrich and Leni Riefenstahl. Falling in Love Again kicks off this extraordinary and provocative piece of theatre, which places Riefenstahl under the spotlight, taking us through her immensely successful and skilful career, and trying to come to a conclusion as to what extent she was culpable of what today we would call enabling or inciting Nazism. Jodi Markel gives a strong performance as Leni, showing her part in making Nazism palatable to the ordinary people of 1930s Germany, and requiring us to make an instant choice as to whether we don a Nazi armband – purely for the purposes of the show, naturally. The play confronts us with the reality of the growth of the Far Right today, and observing the reactions of one’s fellow theatregoers is a vital aspect of the production as a whole. Uncomfortable and challenging; but what is theatre for, if it doesn’t sometimes make us squirm in our seats?

Ghost Light, TheSpace at Niddry Street.

4-stars

From the pen of Ian Tucker-Bell comes Ghost Light, a new Orange Works production, an atmospheric and thoroughly spooky ghost story set in Victorian London. Henry Webster joins the London Ghost Club seeking inspiration to write a ghost story of his own. There he meets Edward Price, who lives in the boarding bouse of the widowed Mia Sands. Webster also takes a room there, where he is astonished to discover the ghosts of two children who seem to be lost and scared of the dark. But who are these children, what is the secret of the locked door, and what part does resident John Henning also play in the ghosts of the household? Eerily staged in almost complete darkness save for a few lamps – or ghost lights – the tension kicks in within the first few seconds and doesn’t let up until all the secrets are revealed. Thrillingly acted by Philip Holden, Nick Blessley, Bizz Portlock, Pierse Stevens and Ian Tucker-Bell himself, this is a strong, old-fashioned ghost story in the finest Victorian tradition; and it’s just as well that it’s not on too late at night, or no one would get any sleep!

MILF and the Mistress, The Space at Niddry Street.

Just an ordinary suburban housewife, Ali lives with her wife, two sons, and various assorted pets. Successful (enough) at work, successful (enough) in her relationship, she’s as happy with her homelife as she might ever expect to be. Except that – if she were to take the time to analyse it – she’s just a bit bored, a bit unfulfilled; a bit too vanilla where she might just possibly be mint choc chip at the very least. With no desire to jeopardise her marriage, or be unfaithful, she just fancies a bit of BDSM. The prospect rather terrifies her, but with safe words at the ready, is there any harm in it? Jennifer Vuletic gives a sensational performance, full of vulnerability, daring, irony and a huge amount of humour in Jane Montgomery Griffiths’ hilarious yet moving one-woman play. It captivates you from the moment Jennifer Vuletic walks on stage and you remain hanging on her every word until the very end. Fantastic!

The Edinburgh Fringe All Month Long – 14th August 2024

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What’s on the slab for today?

Here’s the schedule for August 14th.

11:30 – Dummy in Diaspora, Zoo Playground. From the Edinburgh Fringe website:

“Poetic, hilariously relatable and raw coming-of-age tale of a Middle Eastern American boy, Essa, whose parents are refugees. Essa confesses the experience of growing up in a country that doesn’t have a place for him. Join Essa as he navigates sexuality, religion, the English language, the fleetingness of youth and a nicotine demon that won’t leave him alone. In a solo play told between different ages throughout his life, Essa gives us a soul-stirring exploration of identity and the pursuit of self-discovery in a world that feels indifferent. An honest testament to the eternal quest for belonging.”

I don’t think I could comprehend the sheer misery and confusion of being a refugee, and this sounds like the kind of play that should get across some of the concerns and agonies that are part and parcel of that status. One of those experiences that will hopefully broaden the mind.

13:05 – The Book of Mountains and Seas, Pleasance Courtyard.

“In this new play from award-winning writer Yilong Liu, a California dad arrives in New York to visit his late son’s last boyfriend to propose an impossible mission: visit all 179 restaurants reviewed on his son’s popular Yelp page in one weekend. What ensues is an adventure filled with clashing cultures, unlikely friendships, and the review of a lifetime.”

This sounds like a voyage into sheer fantasy and a most unusual and inventive topic for a play. If it works it should be brilliant!

14:40 – Nerine Skinner: The Exorcism of Liz Truss, Just the Tonic at The Caves.

“Debut hour from Funny Women Content Creator 2023 runner-up and Britain’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist. In 2022, politically unaware Nerine Skinner went viral for her parodies of Prime Minister Liz Truss. Outlasted in Downing Street by a lettuce, Liz Truss’s political relevance faded and the country moved on. But Nerine didn’t. Through hilarious, original, oddball characters, award-nominated political parodies and heartfelt storytelling, this is the story of Nerine trying to let go. Examining how holding onto the past and her unconventional upbringing led to an unhealthy codependency with the former Prime Minister.”

A bit of a punt here, as I haven’t seen Nerine Skinner’s Liz Truss comedy parodies – but judging from the promotional photo alone I think this will be hilarious!

17:25 – Leni’s Last Lament, Assembly Rooms.

“In Leni’s Last Lament, which swept top awards at the United Solo Festival, Hitler’s controversial filmmaker, Leni Riefenstahl, attempts to sanitize her past. Comic and timely, this play will shock and delight you.”

Another very clever idea for a play. It will be fascinating to discover to what extent Leni Riefenstahl was exploited by the Third Reich, or was she as guilty as the rest of them? Another one of those plays that should plug a gap in one’s general knowledge.

19:20 – Ghost Light, theSpace @ Niddry St.

“’I think if you’re going to write a ghost story worth its salt you must experience ghosts for yourself’. In 1865 Henry Webster joins the notorious London Ghost Club, hoping to meet and be inspired by Charles Dickens. There he encounters Edward Price, who draws Henry into investigating a haunting at a lodging house belonging to the widowed Mia Sands. At night, the ghosts of two young children wander the house in search of light – while fearing what waits for them in the darkness. Why would a ghost be afraid of the dark?”

I was very impressed with Ian Tucker Bell’s play Locusts at last year’s Fringe, and this is his latest play, so I’m keen to see more of his writing talent! I’m expecting this to be a rather traditional Victorian ghost story – we may have to keep the light on overnight!

20:20 – MILF and the Mistress, theSpace @ Niddry Street.

“Ali is living the rainbow family dream – but something is missing. It’s a need her wife doesn’t understand, a sexual fantasy suppressed her whole life. Now, suburban swinging, latex and literary eroticism collide, sending her on a hilarious quest to fulfil her darkest desires. A powerhouse solo performance by Australian theatre luminary Jennifer Vuletic, in a darkly hilarious play by Jane Montgomery Griffiths. A story for anyone who wonders if not now, when? ‘Writing is clever, cutting and poignant’ ***** (TheatreMatters.com.au). ‘Brilliant and thought-provoking’ ***** (DarkStoriesTheatre.com.au). ‘Vuletic is magnetic’ **** (Age, Melbourne).”

This feels like a rather bold way to end the evening, but it comes with some terrific reviews, so let’s be daring and give it a try!

 

Check back later to see how we enjoyed all these shows!

Edinburgh Fringe 2024 Reviews – i am george massey, Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act, Nettles, Hardly Working, and Nick Schuller: Still Dry White

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i am george massey, TheSpace on The Mile.

Out of Context Theatre’s i am george massey provides a terrifying insight into how easy it is for someone to fall into the rabbit hole of depression and radicalisation. Childhood trauma results in his never fully coming to terms with who he is; he takes the counselling that is available but the degree to which it helps him is questionable. Suffering bad side effects of Citalopram, he posts a cry for help on the Internet, and it is Stan who answers and gives him support. But the Stans of this world can have ulterior motives. Raising very pertinent issues that affect us all, this is an emotional, gripping and powerful play; technically flawless, and immaculately written and performed by Stephen Dee.

Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act, Assembly Rooms.

4-stars

Nigel Miles-Thomas leads us through Sherlock Holmes’ greatest cases, his friendship with Watson, his enmity with Moriarty and his final days of retirement. But there’s also a fascinating glimpse into Holmes the Man, with a moving portrayal of his childhood days; the cruelty of his father and suffering of his mother. Mr Miles-Thomas takes on dozens of characterisations through this absorbing piece with a wonderful range of voices and accents, and I was hooked on his every word. It also made we want to go back and re-read all the Sherlock Holmes stories for myself. Truly engrossing!

Nettles, Greenside at George Street.

Alyona takes us through a history of her past sexual encounters, prompted by the possessions in an unknown man’s suitcase. It’s a patchwork of tales, loosely linked; and her memories suggest that all these encounters haven’t really made her at all happy. Jacqueline Lipman gives an intense performance but the show lacks substance, light and shade; and I confess I couldn’t quite put my finger on quite what it intended to achieve.

 

Hardly Working, TheSpace on The Mile.

Charity wanders into the bar where Lois works in order to hand in her CV – but she’s left it behind. Nevertheless, she gets a job and they strike up a relationship – with Charity making all the running. Lois moves in with Charity in Charity’s parents’ seven bedroomed house. This is wealth beyond Lois’ imagination. But she is uncomfortable at having everything bought for her – so starts to go flat-hunting without Charity’s knowledge. She’ll be happy at that, right? The powerplay between the two characters makes for an interesting subject, and the conclusion it draws is that the rich partner is only in it for the power and domination over the poor partner. Nothing really to do with class, as the blurb suggests, just money. Sadly, however, it’s very poorly presented, including an agonisingly slow process with a small whiteboard that the poor actor who plays Lois constantly has to rub out throughout the play, replacing Now with Then and back again, ad infinitum. That needs to be replaced with something that changes more quickly (a simple lighting change could perhaps suffice?) There’s a totally superfluous male character whose relevance never becomes apparent. There’s also some disappointing stagecraft – items that fell off the bar counter in one scene stayed on the floor for the rest of the play, whether or not it was now or then. Hopefully it can be tightened up during its run.

Nick Schuller: Still Dry White, Laughing Horse at the Eastside.

4-stars

Still Dry White is the perfect name for Nick Schuller’s show, as he’s extremely dry, does stay quite still during his performance, and – well you can guess the rest. He has a fantastic delivery style, very unhurried, careful and measured, with perfectly chosen words; the result is that the sting in the tail of many of his jokes comes totally unexpectedly and twice as funny. Not afraid of a pause in delivery – always the sign of a confident comedian – Mr Schuller has some brilliant material that frequently goes close to where angels fear to tread, but always stays on the funny side. An extremely enjoyable and surprisingly piquant hour of comedy.