Archive for category Brett Herriot
Dusty Limits: Darkling
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Dusty Limits: Darkling, theSpaces on August 27, 2011
CABARET*** Dusty Limits: Darkling
SpaceCabaret @ 54
The cabaret legend Dusty Limits returns to the Fringe with Darkling.
Looking at all things melancholy – and indeed suicidal – seems an odd choice for a show but it actually works thanks to Dusty’s wry observations on life. His style is an interesting mix of burlesque and vaudeville and at times stark honesty as he recounts his battle with depression and the search for love. He is instantly likeable and one feels so comfortable in his presence despite the lyrics of the self-penned songs being outrageous in the extreme. His voice is rich and strong as he sings with emotion when needed and comedy flair when appropriate too. He is assisted by a pianist and a stand up double bass on stage.
Why the three stars then? Well for me I think his show is just a bit too short, at 45 minutes he is just hitting his stride when the show comes to an end.
However, Dusty continues to be the king, or perhaps queen, of the cabaret scene and you can’t fail to love his style and thoughts on daily life. A little more content and his show is on the way to five stars.
Perfectly Public
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Perfectly Public, Zoo on August 27, 2011
THEATRE*** Perfectly Public
Zoo Southside
Back Door Productions bring a play to the Fringe which started life as a sketch – and it works – to a degree.
Young writers Sam Scott and James Thomson have converted their comedy sketch “Rah Rah” into something a bit bigger and longer looking at the public perception of being a private school student as opposed to public. It’s done with a wry sense of humour. That said they seem to be infatuated with either being gay themselves or that having a strong gay story line will enhance the show. It’s only mid way through the piece that you actually connect with the knowledge their commenting on hidden homosexuality in the private school system. Its still a taboo subject in many a private school for a pupil to come to terms with their sexuality and I am glad the writers have taken a chance on writing a piece of theatre around it.
The songs are nice enough but need a little bit of work and Sam Scott must slow down slightly at the piano and not race through the score as the take on Bryan Adams “summer of 69” is right on the money.
This is show which is very much a work in progress and the boys are brave enough to go on stage themselves supported by a small ensemble cast. Director Jules Crossley has delivered the goods working the small space well. Overall this is a production worth catching as it does have a future and for that reason I look forward to seeing them back for the Edinburgh Fringe 2012, mean while catch them if you can while their around!
Love Songs for a Timewaster
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Gilded Baloon, Love Songs for a Timewaster on August 27, 2011
THEATRE**** Love Songs for a Timewaster
Gilded Balloon
Nobody is perfect, but how much imperfection should you put up with before you jump ship? This heartfelt and hilarious one-man musical, packed with beautiful new acoustic songs, is a route map for how to fall out of love with a person and fall in love with life. Featuring leading Scottish playwright Iain Heggie and John Kielty from Edinburgh rock band The Martians.
It’s good to see Heggie back at the Fringe, following a six year absence, with two new solo shows. Love Songs For A Timewaster, was apparently developed from his experimental work-in-progress show Wide Asleep which fused theatre with cabaret, live music and stand-up.
This is an autobiographical piece from Heggie – an out and proud gay man. The story depicts his journey with a younger man who also has girl in the back ground. It makes for an interesting watch and the songs are very melodic with a strong Scottish folk sense to them.
The whole show is hugely poetic, which truly relaxes the soul as the melodies soar around you.
Release
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Pleasance, Release on August 25, 2011
THEATRE**** Release
Pleasance Dome
How much more debt to society does a prisoner owe once that prisoner is released following their sentence? Using a two year long research project as the basis for this play Icon productions bring a moving and compelling piece of theatre to the Fringe.
Using a talented cast of three performances playing a multitude of roles reflecting the experiences of those going through the probation system which are ultimately failing them as is a society that doesn’t really care and a government that’s confused on how to tackle repeat offending. The use of the multimedia element is very clever and enhances the production throughout as it builds via a gritty, sobering and realistic view of modern day people being pushed through a prison system intended to rehabilitate but is no way equipped to do so.
It would be unfair to pick out a stand out performance as all three shone but special credit must go the productions director as they have weaved together a mixture of drama, physical theatre, music and multimedia in such a way that the true power of emotional theatre hammers the story home. The project overall is stimulating but at times a very tough piece to watch but I think we need that kind of stimulus to balance the fringe out over all and in fact to balance the British theatre scene too.
This production will I hope have a further life beyond the Fringe but that’s for the future, for now make sure you check this production out during the final weekend of this year’s festival season.
Frisky and Mannish
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Frisky and Mannish, Underbelly on August 25, 2011
COMEDY**** Frisky and Mannish
Udderbelly
Laura Corcoran and Matthew Floyd Jones return to the Edinburgh fringe as their alter egos Frisky and Mannish to complete the trilogy of productions with Pop Centre Plus.
Essentially the premise this time around is that Frisky and the gorgeous Mannish have taken it on themselves to open a centre to turn random nobodies in pop stars using their tried and tested series of tests and tasks with hilarious effects. Their ability to take known songs from the charts and the back catalogue of famous pop stars and make them something completely different is a unique talent. So cheesy dance numbers like “Saturday night” become power ballads and the Carpenters are given a new lease of life thanks to N-Dubz. The songsters build to a finale were they put together their own boy band with a little audience help ensuring the audience leave on a high.
What Frisky and Mannish do in terms of their show is being done by several other acts but what sets them apart is the infectious charm they present in their clearly defined characters that are so different from who Corcoran and Floyd Jones are in real life. The humour is topical but never offensive and their enjoyment of performing comes across from the stage to the audience. They are endlessly watchable and the hour long slot doesn’t seem long enough – I could watch them all night. As long as they continue to allow the act to grow greater heights lie ahead for them. For me personally I could sit and watch Mannish for hours alone so don’t miss out on seeing the Pop Centre Plus before the festival ends and life seems just that little bit duller again.
Sold
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Pleasance, Sold on August 25, 2011
THEATRE***** Sold
Pleasance Courtyard
Most people in today’s society believe slavery has been abolished and that we live in a far more forward thinking world, sadly they are wrong and Quiconque productions take on the challenge of showcasing the research carried out by the Human Trafficking Foundation, in the form of interviews with those who were trafficked into the UK and eventually into domestic slavery, forced labour and the sex trade it also covers Child Trafficking.
Director Catherine Alexander has taken a cast made up of current graduates from the Central School of speech and Drama to bring these interviews to life in a piece of theatre that weaves drama, physical theatre and dance together with Multi Media elements in a tour de force production. The horror of watching what these fellow humans are subjected to in the belief they are creating a better life for themselves is both humbling, upsetting and leaves the audience down right angry that our government doesn’t care and withdraws funding from the charities trying to help and then blames the problems on the do gooders!. The cast weave together the many stories of how their characters came to be in the UK and the experiences they lived through whilst trying to make a life here, it is disturbing and shocking and the entire cast work brilliantly together to create the imagery which is enhanced by the physical theatre elements and projections of what appears to be CCTV footage ranging from an ultra-violent death to police interviews. There is some stand out performances from the cast and for me Nicholas Hart really excels as he turns from what appears to be a young guy in love to the revelation he is grooming a school kid for the sex trade leaving you hating him. He does all that with complete conviction.
This production weaves a story that lingers on the mind as there is no real end of the individual story lines as they whole situation continues to spiral unless someone in power takes notice and starts the process of saying to the traffickers that the UK won’t stand for it any longer. Until that happens we as a society need pieces of theatre like this to say we are being vigilant and ultimately we do care for our fellow human beings.
Despite its early start time I implore you to do what you must to see this thought provoking, moving and simply brilliant piece of theatre during its Edinburgh Fringe Season.
Black Slap
Posted by Martin in Black Slap, Brett Herriot, Gilded Baloon on August 25, 2011
THEATRE**** Black Slap
Gilded Balloon
October 16th 1964, the boys dressing room of the Victoria Palace Theatre, London’s west end, Harold Wilson has just won the general election taking the Labour party into power then Mostyn Thomas switches off the radio it’s time to get ready for the evening performance of the Black and White minstrel show. So begins this exciting, warm and funny play from Paul Haley.
We all know what happened in the years since the Minstrels were deemed racist and removed from TV but at one time the show was massively popular and indeed the stage show ran for ten years between 1962 and 1972 at the Victoria, it’s here we meet Mostyn the head boy of the company played with revelry by John Griffiths, the half has just been called and it’s time to start blacking up for the show. As a veteran of many a dressing room the capturing of back stage politics is flawless added to this is the fact the troupe have been invited to perform with the Beatles at the 1964 royal command performance but not all the performers will appear before her maj, cue backstage in fighting to hilarious effect. The small company play the roles with conviction and completely bring to life a time with a lot less political correctness than now.
Peter Whitfield excels as Roy, the union official who is getting older and fatter and deemed unsuitable for the queen. Wide boys Merv the Aussie played to perfection by Will Chitty and Dave played by the gorgeous Tommy O’Neill who has a body to drool over! Completing the line-up is Marc small as Pyrex the boys dresser and the head girl of the Wendy played by Sarah Redmond. The show is extra special with addition of well know drag artist Dave Lynn playing the role of Big Mary, the minstrels resident drag queen who misses out performing for a bigger queen than him. It’s so refreshing to watch Dave out his trade mark wig and glam frocks showing just how brilliant an actor he is!
The show is actually 30 minutes shorter than advertised and feels just right, so if you want a lunch time comedy play that brilliant marks a time so different from now then you won’t be disappointed with this show.
Nunsense
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Edinburgh Academy, Nunsense on August 24, 2011
MUSICALS**** Nunsense
Edinburgh Academy
Local Company “tempo” bring the off Broadway smash hit “Nunsense” to the fringe this festival season. They really succeed in spreading the good word from above in comedy style.
The story of Nunsense follows a group of 5 nuns from a convent in Hoboken New York having suffered the lost of most of the sisters due to a bad batch of Vichyssoise soup and having spent the last of the money on a new plasma TV. Mother Superior Sister Mary Regina is forced to place four of the nun’s bodies in the deep freezer while she tries to raise the funds to bury them. Her cunning idea is to enlist Sisters Mary Amnesia a victim of blow to the head by a crucifix, Mary Hubert ever so repressed, Robert Anne a nun with individuality and flare for a Broadway belter and finally Sister Mary Leo late of the Ballet School. Together they put on a talent show and its we, the audience who are invited to see their efforts.
The show is filled with comedy as every nun joke in creation is given a good airing to belly laughs from the audience along with excellent musical numbers showcasing the power vocals from the 5 leading ladies. Outstanding performance come from Gabrielle Pavone as sister Amnesia as she struggles to remember who she is and why god put her on earth, dolly parton apparently holds the key. For me the knock out performance comes from Niloo Far Khan as Sister Robert Anne as she shows one can believe in god but still be her own person and she gets the balance of conviction and tenderness just right.
The whole production is anchored but a small four piece onstage house band under the direction of Simon Hanson who really do the score justice. That said there were some sound problems and it did feel as though the girls voices were roaring through the speakers to the audience. It’s also a bit of marathon at 2 hours and 20 minutes which is highly unusual for a piece of fringe theatre.
This really is a worthy four star effort and I hope the audiences travel to this venue which is on the fringe of the fringe due to the relocation of assembly this year. So put aside your own religion and get on down to nunsense for a fun musical night out!
Jamie Blake
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Jamie Blake, Zoo on August 24, 2011
THEATRE**** Jamie Blake
Zoo Roxy
“I Love You” the three most over used words in the English language and also words which have the most emotional impact on the human condition. It’s these three words that Ravenrock Productions have chosen to use as the basis for their new work “Jamie Blake” at the fringe this year.
Writer and Director Ashley Scott-Layton has taken mixture of beat boxing, modern dance and drama and used the experience of year in the life of himself and his friends to create a story that examines Jamie Blake’s (Rupert Lazarus) need to feel love and how he believes what is in reality, just a crush, is the love of his life. It really does bring home the point of view that what one person feels is never what the object of one’s affection feels. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that all of us have been on, I found myself completely understanding of Jamie’s journey as I too have felt love for someone and never had it returned and I’m sure the rest of audience in attendance could similarly relate.
With an excellent ensemble company producing the beat box and vocal score accompanied by original composer Rhys Lewis on Guitar it gives the production a very fresh and contemporary feel and also makes the show crack along at quite a pace very much like real life. Grace Savage is to be commended for her beat box orchestrations and she too joins the company on stage in the role of Betine. The one thing that keeps the show back from a five star affair for me is the inclusion of Luke Murphy as Alex while Luke’s performance is exemplary the fact that Alex is a stereotypical Homosexual character out to add comedy to the bulk of the show while never letting the audience see that gay people feel the same emotions as those of the counterparts really is a wasted opportunity. That Said Luke does flex his acting muscles wonderfully in the emotional ending of the show, its shame his character is portrayed as a sex mad homo and nothing else during the earlier scenes.
If you want fresh, innovative theatre with just a little stereotyping this fringe then this show is a top of the list production; you can’t fail to be charmed by it.
The Investigation
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Investigation, Zoo on August 24, 2011
THEATRE**** The Investigation
Zoo Southside
Between December 1963 and August 1965 the Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials took place as the world tried to understand what happen during the Holocaust. It is from the transcripts of the trial that Peter Weiss wrote the script for “The Investigation” in late 1965. It’s a production of this script that 3 bugs fringe theatre to this year’s Edinburgh festival.
The mixing of physical theatre with drama when it comes to telling stories of this magnitude never fails to impress and three bugs do it so well. The company has selected extracts from the full play which shows humanities inhumanity to humanity in his stark truth. Blending the words of the trial with physical embellishments captures the audience’s attention from the off, the ensemble cast working tightly together in the small space recreate both the trials from the 60’s as well as events from 1940 – 1943.
The imagery lingers in the memory especially as those who were on trial refused to believe they had done anything wrong and your heart breaks as the horrific treatment suffered but those living in the camp became all too clear. Now nearly 70 years on since these events took place they continue to transcend time and the 3 bugs theatre company pay the best tribute they can to the victims by continuing to remember them and the events which marked their lives.
The show should be five stars however the programming by Zoo venues of placing this show in the small studio space while a very noisy circus act roars away upstairs causing the roof to shake really detracts from what is an difficult and emotional play. That said if you like to be challenged by theatre and are willing to be left thinking long into the night afterwards then this production is everything you need and more, so don’t miss out.
Liberace Live From Heaven
Posted by Martin in Assembly, Brett Herriot, Liberace Live From Heaven on August 22, 2011
THEATRE**** Liberace Live From Heaven
Assembly
The man who made his name on Opportunity Knocks, Bobby Crush, returns to the Edinburgh Festival with a production worthy of the West End and Broadway. Liberace Live from heaven.
The premise of the show is Liberace has arrived at the pearly gates following his death, however Heaven is a bit busy and St Peter and God need Liberace to prove his worth, after all with Chopin and Mozart all ready in the VIPs section what can Liberace offer. The show is split evenly into two half’s, the first is fairly light and camp with Bobby taking Liberace through his repertoire of classic piano pieces with a dash of glitter. The voice of St Peter is played in a pre recorded voice over by Stephen Fry and God by none other than Victoria Wood.
It’s in the second half of the show that I was taken with Bobby’s acting ability, I never had bobby crush down as an actor I always viewed him as a ketch Cabaret artist. I was wrong he can act beautifully, where the production doesn’t hold back is the examination of Liberace’s Homosexuality, the reasons he hid it with vile lies in order to get one over on the Daily Mirror. Bobby gives a heart breaking performance as he recalls Liberace’s time with Scott Thorson the only man Liberace ever loved the law suits that occurred when the couple broke up and ultimately their reconciliation during Liberace’s dying days. Its Liberace’s death that really gets the production into thought provoking territory, Bobby in character as Liberace asks god what she was thinking off when she bestowed AIDS on the human race, its question that’s asked by those living with and those effected by those living with HIV and AIDS. The answer is quite revealing.
Using a fine blend of Comedy, Pathos and Drama, and a spectacular finale using audience suggestions that makes the whole production a winner and made me view Bobby Crush in a whole new light. Regardless of your own thoughts surrounding Liberace this is one production that should be on the must see list before the festival concludes.
Hit Comet
Posted by Martin in Bedlam Theatre, Brett Herriot, Hit Comet on August 22, 2011
THEATRE**** Hit Comet
Bedlam Theatre
Hand Cannon return to the fringe with Hit Comet and makes for a hilarious hour of fun at the expense of the pop world.
The play set in an executive corner office looks at the argument over artistic freedom versus selling out to rake in the cash. When the manager demands a hit before Barry Manilow phones gives the 5 comedians involved in the production all the ammunition they need. The try with many a comedic twist to come up with a sure fire hit and end with nothing more than a mobile phone ringtone titled “love is my dipping sauce”.
The whole production is delivered in a very tongue and cheek way and really makes the audience think about the trash being churned out into the pop charts via the means of X factor and pop idol. Can you honestly recall a top ten hit from a winner of those programs other than Leona Lewis of course? The show builds towards a hilarious conclusion as the assemble staff members grab whatever instruments they can find including a double cello! Yes it’s the first I’ve seen of that too! And try to woo Mr Manilow with their song writing talents.
The great thing about the Bedlam fringe season is encapsulated in this production it’s a confirmed piece of fringe theatre with excellent observations on both life and musical leanings. Its well worth catching before the seasons ends.
Rent
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Rent, theSpaces on August 22, 2011
MUSICALS** Rent
the Spaces @ Venue 45
Click community productions present Jonathan Larson’s tony award winning production of Rent this festival.
The idea of Rent which is based on Puccini’s La Boheme looks at a group of friends as they face life, love and loss in the shadow of the Aids epidemic of the 1980’s. This was also Jonathan’s final piece of writing before his death and the show imbues many of his friends with in its characters. Sadly for Click productions it’s obvious that this show is a step to far for them.
Director Audrey Tang has mixed the schools version with the full Broadway version – and also included moments from the original 1993 -1996 workshop editions which leave a mish mash on stage. It also heavily miss cast, I appreciate the effort it takes to put community theatre on stage, but the ability to sing is a must for any principal character, there were bum notes, and moments where the cast were singing completely out of time with the music. There was also an ensemble member who sang flat pretty much all the way through.
In terms of characters Ruaridh MacPhee stands out as Mark Cohen – especially given that he came late to the role to cover for someone else dropping out. I also particularly enjoyed Jamie Marks performance within the ensemble and he works really hard through a volley of roles and he doesn’t look half bad in a bra, (which incidentally made no sense what so ever). Sadly Claire Jakobsson as Joanne Jefferson comes across more as Mary Poppins with an out of place English accent an while she has an excellent singing voice she is so unsure of herself – it weakens the character immensely.
For me the crucial scene of “Cover You Reprise” following the death of Angel is the emotional sucker punch of the show – this was also the moment that it became obvious the company had little connection with the material as they raced through their 80 minute slot.
There is a good theatre company within Click but they are stretched performing Rent. I’m sure we shall see them back on the Fringe again though, as the talent is there if it’s used properly.
Drags Aloud
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Drags Aloud, Underbelly on August 22, 2011
COMEDY**** Drags Aloud
Underbelly
It’s becoming a fringe tradition to have the drags aloud girls here to celebrate the season with us, and boy do they do it in style.
The theme for this years show at the underbelly is that of Showgurls! those wonderful women who are just a cut above the rest. We get a plethora of musical numbers from the three ladies intercut with a solo section each. These sections allow the gurls to explain how they came to be in the profession of drag theatre and what it means to them. Two out of three choose to do so in a highly comedic fashion. It’s the third of the drags aloud girls who opens her heart and lets us know it was by doing drag that she came to recognise her Transgenderism and realise it wasn’t a bad thing to want to be who you truly are inside. It was a moment of deep pathos in an otherwise camp comedy hour and really sets the drags aloud team apart from the rest. They also get through a succession of wonderful and colourful costumes. To make up for the quick change periods in the show they use some pre filmed segments on the big screen to join the show together to great effect.
If you’re looking for a fun filled late night comedy production then the Legendary Drags aloud are a must just remember to wear your sparkles when you see them!!
The Prodigals
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Gilded Baloon, Prodigals on August 22, 2011
MUSICALS** The Prodigals
Gilded Balloon
The Fringe is often used as a testing ground for productions which is hoped by their producers will make their way into the West End of on UK tour. Inspire Productions still has a long way to go before letting this musical loose in such circles.
The plot is essentially two different stories thrown together with a very weak link. Kyle Gibson is the son of Luke Gibson a man from the military who has two sons’ one of which has followed him into the army and the other; Kyle has launched himself on a pop career with tragic effect. His co singer Kelly Byrne (Lucie Jones) dies after an overdose of heroin supplied by Kyle. What we see afterward are the effects on those left behind as they continue with a life further strained by the reality of being in the military.
What we get and indeed what is stated in the program is a the current public view of the military mashed up with the recent death of Amy Winehouse, which let’s be honest is a bit quick to be using in any form on stage. The show doesn’t know what it wants to be in the first 30 minutes it’s a kind of mishmash of top of the pops numbers which are obviously being lip synched, with the deep emotional and well played out military sections looking at life on the front life of conflict. The show does have good ideas but together it doesn’t really work. The second half of the show does begin to show a quality piece of musical theatre but it’s not enough to save it. The fact there are eight writers alone working on the music really says something. The producers need to rework the first 30 minutes and replace the remainder. Somewhere within this production is a new musical which will – given a chance – find an audience.
Spring Awakening
Posted by Martin in Augustine's, Brett Herriot, Spring Awakening on August 20, 2011
MUSICALS***** Spring Awakening
Augustine’s
Edinburgh University Savoy Opera Group mark the start of their 50th anniversary year with a beautiful and powerful production of Duncan Sheik’s and Steven Sater’s Spring awakening.
The production is based on the original German play by Frank Wedekind, Set in late-19th century Germany, it concerns teenagers who are discovering the inner and outer tumult of sexuality. The original play was banned in Germany for a while due to its portrayal of abortion, homosexuality, rape, child abuse and suicide. What director Sarah Haddath has done to beautiful effect is stripped the show back from the wider known Broadway and west end productions and completely allowed her cast to engage with topics involved rather than merely rehearsing a show for the stage. This shows on stage by the complete connection the ensemble cast have with the piece. It is also commendable for removing the dance element and replacing it with a stunning sequence of physical theatre which completely changes the over all affect of the production for the better.
It has been shorted to fit into the 90 minute late night slot but the timing and length only had to the worthiness of the production. Using a black box theatre and a selection of child like chairs to depict scenes allows the audience to really focus on the performances and what performances they are. In the role of Wendla, Emma Middleton excels with conviction at what she wants from sexual contact and at the sheer horror of what underage and unprotected sex can have. Combined with the efforts of Hamish Colville as Melchior who sings with a rich baritone voice, his character paid the price for that of Moritz, played by Finlay MacAulay, watching Finlay on stage is simply breath taking and beautiful as the sheer intensity of the character’s fall into emotional despair brought tears to my eyes, his truly is an unforgettable performance. Special mention must also go to Ewan Mood as Ernst and especially Dominic Lewis as Hanschen. Their depiction of a blossoming gay love is to be commended, with Dominic giving just the right level of sassiness to woo the impressionable Ernst, The kisses felt real and not a straight man playing gay on stage.
The whole show is anchored by a lovely acoustic band under the direction of Luci Holland, and what you ultimately get is one of those very rare moments in fringe theatre and that’s a production that can’t be topped because of its sheer individuality and excellence of performance. This is the stand out musical of the 2011 season and if you’re ready to embrace the freedom of self exploration then this show is a must.
Michael Winslow
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Michael Winslow, Underbelly on August 19, 2011
COMEDY**** Michael Winslow
Udderbelly
Anyone over the age of 20 will remember a string of films titled “Police Academy”. There was a character called “Sgt Motor Mouth Jones”, performed by Michael Winslow. Now Winslow has made his debut on the Fringe.
What he does is amazing – he really is a man of 10,000 sounds – everything from a bloke having a piss right through to a recreation of Jimi Hendrix live at Woodstock. He gives a full hour of belly laughs as he recalls his life growing up in the Motor City, Detroit and how radio infused his sense of sound. He also gives us a graphic demonstration of his ability to upset many an air steward. He also excels in his affectionate tribute to Star Wars – where an extract is projected on to a giant screen and the sound track is replaced by Winslow voicing the characters and special effects. He closes the performance with a tribute to Louis Armstrong.
This man is unique. His show at the up side down cow is selling out well in advance, so even though it may be a struggle, I’d say get a ticket while you can. This is one comedian who is unforgettable.
Mildred McManus for World Minister
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Mildred McManus/World Minister, theSpaces on August 19, 2011
THEATRE*** Mildred McManus for World Minister
The Space @ North Bridge
Rising star Francesca Cox brings her debut solo show to the Spaces venue at the Carlton Highland Hotel and proves to be a very interesting watch.
Cox performs the role of Mildred, who has applied for the post of World Minister – a job which is bigger than Obama’s. The show is designed in an episodic style almost as though she is performing excerpts from a diary of a fictional character as well as beautiful performances at the piano with a range of self-composed songs. It allows us to see a glimpse of her background, what brought her to the decision to apply for the world minister post and finally the journey to get the job is covered.
What we essentially get is one women’s hopes and dreams for a better world than we live in and it’s delivered with passion and verve by Francesca. I found the performance to be very brave for a fringe new comer and could have done with being slightly trimmed from its 75 minute run time but the show did flow well and the beauty of Francesca’s piano playing was an added bonus. I’m sure Mildred McManus and indeed Francesca Cox will return to Edinburgh and scale even greater heights. If you’re on The Bridges and fancy a show, you won’t go far wrong with this piece of theatre.
I Love You, Your Perfect, Now Change
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Greenside, I Love You/Perfect/Now Change on August 19, 2011
MUSICALS*** I Love You, Your Perfect Now Change
Greenside Theatre
The Viva Touring company brings the second production of “I love you, your perfect” to the fringe following previous sell out runs.
This production of the off Broadway cult classic is not one of my favourites I must admit, but Viva do pull off a worthy production. They have chosen to use a cast of 10 performers as opposed to the 4 – 8 normally used. This helps to ensure the same faces are not reappearing throughout the production.
“I love you, your perfect” is an episodic style of a musical looking at what love is to several different people unfortunately all of them happen to be straight which is a bit at odds with musical theatre as a whole. The Viva production is bookended by a Greek chorus lamenting love lost. We then fire through a series of sketches with songs to back this point up before the realisation that to be in love is love enough and should never change.
There are some stand out performers within the company especially Ben Clark and Shellie Baigent who both shine in their roles and Ben also strips off to quite an effect.
I don’t think I will ever grow to love “I love you, your perfect, now change” as I want to change so much of the show myself, but that’s the nature of musical theatre really, it can’t please everyone. So if you’re around this lovely venue tucked behind the gay scene and playhouse theatre – check out this show for yourself.
The Axis of Awesome
Posted by Martin in Axis of Awesome, Brett Herriot, Gilded Baloon on August 19, 2011
COMEDY**** The Axis of Awesome
Gilded Balloon
Jordan, Lee and Benny return to the fringe for their fourth season at the gilded balloon and they are packing them in!
The Axis of awesome have become somewhat of a fringe success story having started at the gilded balloon at the tiny sportsman’s theatre and working their way up the building to the debating hall which is the venue’s biggest theatre for this year’s show. What the three Aussie lads do is portray a rock back with a twist, they are happy to steal others tunes as well as present their own comedy efforts. Their humour is taken from observations on daily life as well as the cheesy side of modern pop music.
The music is always intercut with comedy asides but the joke surrounding Benny’s height is getting very old hat, which is why the review is four stars not five, if the boys are able to change their musical material so well then they must alter the comedy to match it. There were some pretty clever moments and a tribute to Harry Potter unlike any other I’ve ever heard.
The hour soon whips by with hits such as “floppy guy” and “KFC” getting the audience cheering. The axis became a YouTube sensation with a track called “4 chord pop” which splices together around 15 songs using the same four chords of music to brilliant effect. Thankfully the boys are always changing the make-up of this section keeping it fresh and getting huge roars of approval when they closed the show with it.
The show is sold out well in advance of the 21:30 slot so make sure you’re there early to get a ticket to the Axis and discover why there so awesome!
Muscle
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Muscle, Zoo on August 17, 2011
DANCE**** Muscle
Zoo Roxy
Welsh Company ‘Shock and Awe’ bring a production to the Fringe which is intelligent, beautiful and very personal. It’s one of the productions which have come to define Zoo’s place with in the heart of the fringe.
The story is built around a series of interview undertaken by the writer and director asking the question what defines masculinity? The results were astonishing as no two people ever answered the same. What the company have done is used the power of physical movement with comedy and dose of reality to present those stories as a collective. It’s still very much a work in progress and always will be, what one person sees today is different from what one will see in the future. Muscle will continue to involve in this manner.
The stories I encountered ranged from Catholics indulging in sexual intercourse much to the disgust of the local father right through to a man’s abuse of his family and a son breaking his heart to hold that family together no matter what.
The movement aspect of the production is beautiful as poetry in motion and complete captivates the mind as does the striking direction and use of projected visuals across a set consisting of movable gauze panels. The 5 male performers are excellent as they slip between characters both male and female and effortlessly pull of the physical element. For me especially Lewis Reeves excels in this his first professional production with wonderful physical presence and acting talent. In terms of sheer acting alone Lee Mengo is also a performer to watch out for.
The whole production reminds me of the poet Dylan, “do not go quietly unto that good night, rage, rage against the dying of the light” This examination of Masculinity will capture the heart of those who see it, so don’t miss out.
The Improvised Musical
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, C Venues, Improvised Musical on August 17, 2011
MUSICALS**** The Improvised Musical
C Chambers Street
No Shoes Theatre company return to the fringe with the improvised musical, something which is becoming common on the fringe scene however No Shoes do it with style!
As with all impro shows, it’s the sheer guts and talent of those on stage who make the production work. While showstoppers over at the Gilded Balloon work the same idea but always keep the barrier of the audience and stage in place, No shoes is happy to rip that barrier down, borrowing items from the audience for props, enlisting members to play a game to win the chance to have “change the show” card. The vital ingredient to make it work is audience suggestions. At my performance we ended up with a musical called “My Toes Made Rock and Roll” and featured the song “I am no dinosaur”. What happens is an excellent comedy filled hour which delights the capacity audience.
The 6 performers are backed by an onstage band of drummer, Double Bass and the brilliant and Beautiful Gavin Whitworth at the piano; it seems the best musicals this year revolve around him at the fringe! They are of course assisted by the Impro techie who works hard to ensure lighting changes happen as the action develops. A very cleaver twist to the production is watching the performer’s feet. The all start the production in a selection of trainers and socks and by the end there bare foot. They really are the No Shoes Theatre company including Gavin who played the piano barefoot throughout!
If you find yourself at C Venues at 6pm you won’t go wrong with this show! I’m still humming the tunes now!
Mirazozo
Posted by Martin in Assembly, Brett Herriot, Mirazozo on August 17, 2011
KIDS SHOW**** Mirazozo
Assembly George Square @ Dawn till Dusk
Set in a corner of the George square garden, Architects of air present the installation that has wowed audiences from Tel Aviv to the Sydney opera house.
Mirazozo is not a piece of performance art ,it is in fact a giant art installation using the power of natural light and colour to mould a fascinating journey through childhood dreams and hopes. You slip off your shoes and enter the airlock and completely forget your worries and strains that a day on the fringe can bring as you’re enveloped by a soundscape and visuals unlike any you’ve ever seen before. The structure is completely man made and it does breathe as each entry and exit from the airlock causes the Mirazozo to inhale and exhale air moving the structure all around you. Designer Alan Parkinson really has created a mini world of wonder with light and colour in beautiful volumes.
Mirazozo has so many possibilities both for the everyday audience member and especially those with sensory impairments and autism. It has a strange way of really pulling you under its charms and really is an extraordinary experience with in the festival. The installation runs in 30 minute session but the staff are in no hurry to remove you so it’s worth taking time to sit back relax and wonder about the possibilities of your own dreams as the light all around soothes your soul.
Jet Set Go!
Posted by Martin in Brett Herriot, Jet Set Go!, theSpaces on August 17, 2011
MUSICALS****
Jet Set Go!
theSpace on Niddry St
This cult show set with in the high flying world of airline cabin crew can be hit or miss! On this occasion go fly productions pulls it off in style.
Under the direction of Florence Carr the story of four female and two male cabin staff (the males obviously gay) as they take a journey to New York and back with the realisation that love eludes them and just like Fame Love costs. The show offers a mix of musical styles all enhances by the onstage band which includes a violin to great effect.
In terms of spotlight each member of the cast gets there moment to shine but none more so than Martin Kent’s performance as Richard, if you think Alan Cumming in the High Life that’s exactly what Martin is presenting on stage with the addition of compassion added to the sassiness. He shares a duet wonderfully with talented Jack Mosedale as Ryan the boy who wants love but not the campery surrounding the cabin crew lifestyle.
The overall effect of the piece is of fun, laughter and no matter what happens we need to feel loved for who and what we are. This is one musical worth catching down Niddry Street.
Belt Up’s Outland
Posted by Martin in Belt Up’s Outland, Brett Herriot, C Venues on August 17, 2011
THEATRE*****
Belt Up’s Outland
C Soco
Return to the loft set high up in a tenement above Edinburgh to experience the second in the trilogy of work being presented by Belt Up theatre at this year’s fringe.
The interesting thing about Belt Up’s choice of shows this year is each one allows one of the three performers to take the central role. In this one Dan Wood comes to the fore in a tale that asks the audience to step through the looking glass, down the rabbit hole and beyond the wardrobe with Fur coats hanging inside to discover what dreams are made off. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s final work, director Dominic J Allen weaves the author’s life story with his undoubted masterpiece “Sylvie and Bruno”. The result is simply amazing and astounding.
Dan wood performers the role of Charles a man who is using the depths of his imagination and dreams to make up for the reality he must face up to in life. He also plays multiple characters during his dreams which are helped by Lucy Fawcett also doubling up as Sylvie and Muriel. Once again I found myself captivated by the performance of Jethro Compton as Arthur and Bruno. Their combined ability to seamless shift between characters before the audience eyes is memorizing and further enhances a wonderful production.
What belt up does to such wonderful effect is including the audience as the central force within each play. As a viewer you truly believe your living the show not watching a piece of theatre. It’s also the combination of excellent writing, director and above all else actors which make the shows work.
Take the journey back to that warm, comforting loft high above the streets of Edinburgh where dreams become reality for a moment and you ask yourself just where those dreams will take you?
