Climate Change: Young People’s Perspectives
Festival of Politics
Young people had a say in world concerns as children aged nine to fourteen from all over Scotland took part in a Climate Change Camp and presented their findings to adults. Emphasis was on shared responsibility and the impressive and detailed mural which they had painted, featuring slogans such as “Which world do you want? It’s your choice” and a ‘promises and pledges’ box for contributions. They recited their own poetry, mainly concerned with the disappearance of wildlife due to global warming, and made suggestions to the ministers in attendance. Some interesting ideas came up which the politicians took on board, with discussions following. This was an inspiring event, tackling a wider picture of Climate Change than the upcoming bill it anticipates.
The Scottish Parliament, 23 Aug, 12.30pm (1.30pm), free
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Showing posts with label *REVIEWS*. Show all posts
Showing posts with label *REVIEWS*. Show all posts
Wednesday, 17 September 2008
REVIEW: Beethoven For Breakfast
Beethoven For Breakfast
ROSL Arts
A fellow reviewer begged me not to do the obvious and mention the croissant in my review of my first ‘For Breakfast’ experience. He was right - complimentary foodstuffs were utterly unnecessary as an enticement to this wonderful performance. The standard was the very highest as we heard two Beethoven works and a sprinkling of Schubert in the undeniably civilised Royal Over-Seas House. Michael Lerace played as though the piano is an extension of his body; gracefully teasing out the beauty in each strain. The trio that followed were also outstanding, giving a sophisticated and sensitive performance. This was relentlessly absorbing music - I left feeling like I had been submerged in it and didn’t want to come up for air.
Royal Over-Seas League, 12, 14, 19, 21 Aug, 9.30am (10.30am), £10.00 (£8.00), fpp 141
tw rating: 4/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
ROSL Arts
A fellow reviewer begged me not to do the obvious and mention the croissant in my review of my first ‘For Breakfast’ experience. He was right - complimentary foodstuffs were utterly unnecessary as an enticement to this wonderful performance. The standard was the very highest as we heard two Beethoven works and a sprinkling of Schubert in the undeniably civilised Royal Over-Seas House. Michael Lerace played as though the piano is an extension of his body; gracefully teasing out the beauty in each strain. The trio that followed were also outstanding, giving a sophisticated and sensitive performance. This was relentlessly absorbing music - I left feeling like I had been submerged in it and didn’t want to come up for air.
Royal Over-Seas League, 12, 14, 19, 21 Aug, 9.30am (10.30am), £10.00 (£8.00), fpp 141
tw rating: 4/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Dancebase Presents … Inbetween
Dancebase Presents … Inbetween
Cie. Willi Dorner
Austrian choreographer Willi Dorner offers a playfully puzzling trip into the postmodern, as fragmented and frenetic as you might expect this ironic comment on the future visions of films ‘2001 – A Space Odyssey’ and ‘Alphaville’ to be. Using music, videos, their bodies, words that were at times funny and piles of headshots of celebrities which they held up against their faces and discarded to change expression, three charismatic performers explored a future where expression is stifled. At times this verged on the absurd, at others it was pretty incomprehensible, but there was always something engaging to look at and consider as the performance space became a workshop for exploring the image, especially of the face, and its relationship to language.
Dance Base – National Centre for Dance, 20 – 23 Aug, 2.00pm (3.00pm), £11.00 (£7.00), fpp 113
tw rating: 3/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Cie. Willi Dorner
Austrian choreographer Willi Dorner offers a playfully puzzling trip into the postmodern, as fragmented and frenetic as you might expect this ironic comment on the future visions of films ‘2001 – A Space Odyssey’ and ‘Alphaville’ to be. Using music, videos, their bodies, words that were at times funny and piles of headshots of celebrities which they held up against their faces and discarded to change expression, three charismatic performers explored a future where expression is stifled. At times this verged on the absurd, at others it was pretty incomprehensible, but there was always something engaging to look at and consider as the performance space became a workshop for exploring the image, especially of the face, and its relationship to language.
Dance Base – National Centre for Dance, 20 – 23 Aug, 2.00pm (3.00pm), £11.00 (£7.00), fpp 113
tw rating: 3/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Kenny Young And The Eggplants
Kenny Young And The Eggplants
How many instruments can you name that resemble an aubergine? Kenny Young and his affable band have a whole bag of them, which they bring out for their hilarious finale, ‘The Savage Eggplant’. In between songs, this Brooklyn trio seem a bit bemused, and humble to the point of bashfulness, but when they start singing their laid-back acoustic pop and bizarre but witty lyrics, they take the audience into a world of talking alligators, aliens and pirates. It’s liberating, silly stuff, toe-tappingly cheerful, and I found myself joining in the several spontaneous sing-alongs that occurred. They evidently enjoy themselves on stage and have a great rapport with their audience, and Kenny’s soft but edgy voice is great for their kooky tunes.
Acoustic Music Centre @ St Brides, 18 – 24 Aug, 8.00pm (9.00pm), £10.00 (£8.00), fpp 155
tw rating: 3/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
How many instruments can you name that resemble an aubergine? Kenny Young and his affable band have a whole bag of them, which they bring out for their hilarious finale, ‘The Savage Eggplant’. In between songs, this Brooklyn trio seem a bit bemused, and humble to the point of bashfulness, but when they start singing their laid-back acoustic pop and bizarre but witty lyrics, they take the audience into a world of talking alligators, aliens and pirates. It’s liberating, silly stuff, toe-tappingly cheerful, and I found myself joining in the several spontaneous sing-alongs that occurred. They evidently enjoy themselves on stage and have a great rapport with their audience, and Kenny’s soft but edgy voice is great for their kooky tunes.
Acoustic Music Centre @ St Brides, 18 – 24 Aug, 8.00pm (9.00pm), £10.00 (£8.00), fpp 155
tw rating: 3/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: St Michael And All Saints Festival Concerts
St Michael And All Saints Festival Concerts
St Michael and All Saints Church, Tollcross
I find the organ a difficult instrument to give my full attention to as you often can’t see the organist and the physical source of the music is hidden. This concert of Messiaen’s ‘La Nativité du Seigneur’ (the Birth of our Lord) - which was skilfully performed by Phillip Sawyer - was given a visual focal point in the display of lithographs of an artist’s interpretation of the music which complimented each movement in bold colours and abstract patterns. The music was mainly sombre in tone with slow changing chords beneath a meandering, dissonant melody, rising to increasing depth and grandeur as the movements progressed. Especially evocative of its theme was Les Anges (the angels) where rising trills evoked flight.
St Michael and All Saints Church, dates vary, times vary, free non-ticketed, fpp 162
tw rating: 3/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
St Michael and All Saints Church, Tollcross
I find the organ a difficult instrument to give my full attention to as you often can’t see the organist and the physical source of the music is hidden. This concert of Messiaen’s ‘La Nativité du Seigneur’ (the Birth of our Lord) - which was skilfully performed by Phillip Sawyer - was given a visual focal point in the display of lithographs of an artist’s interpretation of the music which complimented each movement in bold colours and abstract patterns. The music was mainly sombre in tone with slow changing chords beneath a meandering, dissonant melody, rising to increasing depth and grandeur as the movements progressed. Especially evocative of its theme was Les Anges (the angels) where rising trills evoked flight.
St Michael and All Saints Church, dates vary, times vary, free non-ticketed, fpp 162
tw rating: 3/5
published: Sep-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: A Night At The Operas
A Night At The Operas
Edinburgh Grand Opera Chorus
Opera isn't everyone's cup of tea, but this evening would convert some to what they are missing out on. St Andrew's & St George's Church with its unusual elliptical shape and elegant architecture is a magnificent space for ensemble singing. The Edinburgh Grand Opera Chorus was lively and attentive to their conductor as they presented a selection of classics in Italian and French, by composers such as Verdi and Bizet, with two exquisite soprano soloists. Occasionally they needed clearer diction but their voices made a great sound together. Short introductions from the conductor giving the dramatic meaning and performance history of each piece were informative. True, the audience was definitely mature, but as a younger member I enjoyed myself too.
St Andrew's & St George's Church, 16 Aug, 7.30pm (9.15pm), £10.00 (£8.00)
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Edinburgh Grand Opera Chorus
Opera isn't everyone's cup of tea, but this evening would convert some to what they are missing out on. St Andrew's & St George's Church with its unusual elliptical shape and elegant architecture is a magnificent space for ensemble singing. The Edinburgh Grand Opera Chorus was lively and attentive to their conductor as they presented a selection of classics in Italian and French, by composers such as Verdi and Bizet, with two exquisite soprano soloists. Occasionally they needed clearer diction but their voices made a great sound together. Short introductions from the conductor giving the dramatic meaning and performance history of each piece were informative. True, the audience was definitely mature, but as a younger member I enjoyed myself too.
St Andrew's & St George's Church, 16 Aug, 7.30pm (9.15pm), £10.00 (£8.00)
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Alice, Mindy And Friends
Alice, Mindy And Friends
LIPA Graduates 08
The message repeated in this all-female revue was that joining "An All-Girl Band" is the solution to all the problems of the modern woman. The tune was catchy, but, like much of the material, its lyrics lacked the depth to make a real impact. Every stereotypical female experience you might expect was covered - first dates, friendships and that of the secretary who fantasises about trashy novels. There were some great comic scenes which stuck out amongst the more clichéd numbers, especially the teacher at a parent's evening who is annoyed by an overachieving child and the over-dramatic poetry readings from the 'For Women Only' collection. Ultimately the show was saved by the strong vocal performances which made the best of restrictive material.
Augustine's, 19 - 25 Aug, 9.50pm (10.40pm), £5.00 (£3.50), fpp 168
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
LIPA Graduates 08
The message repeated in this all-female revue was that joining "An All-Girl Band" is the solution to all the problems of the modern woman. The tune was catchy, but, like much of the material, its lyrics lacked the depth to make a real impact. Every stereotypical female experience you might expect was covered - first dates, friendships and that of the secretary who fantasises about trashy novels. There were some great comic scenes which stuck out amongst the more clichéd numbers, especially the teacher at a parent's evening who is annoyed by an overachieving child and the over-dramatic poetry readings from the 'For Women Only' collection. Ultimately the show was saved by the strong vocal performances which made the best of restrictive material.
Augustine's, 19 - 25 Aug, 9.50pm (10.40pm), £5.00 (£3.50), fpp 168
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Yours Anne
Yours Anne
Bassetlaw Youth Theatre, Nottinghamshire County Council Youth Service
Anne Frank's diary is obviously poignant theatrical material, but this short youth production deftly and elegantly highlighted elements of the text without being repetitive or over-sentimental. Nine girls played nine Annes, reminding us that her words represent the many silenced voices of the Holocaust. Using extracts from her diary along with ensemble work, the production set the horror of the world outside against the frustration of Anne's confinement and her yearning to be free. Beautiful images were constructed with strips of plain white material and repeated gestures of closing and opening doors, whilst the young cast performed with great sincerity and used the stage space well, the inclusion of gentle contemporary music giving the production a timeless feel.
The Space @ Venue 45, 18 - 23 Aug, 3.15pm (3.50pm), £6.00 (£4.00), fpp 243
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Bassetlaw Youth Theatre, Nottinghamshire County Council Youth Service
Anne Frank's diary is obviously poignant theatrical material, but this short youth production deftly and elegantly highlighted elements of the text without being repetitive or over-sentimental. Nine girls played nine Annes, reminding us that her words represent the many silenced voices of the Holocaust. Using extracts from her diary along with ensemble work, the production set the horror of the world outside against the frustration of Anne's confinement and her yearning to be free. Beautiful images were constructed with strips of plain white material and repeated gestures of closing and opening doors, whilst the young cast performed with great sincerity and used the stage space well, the inclusion of gentle contemporary music giving the production a timeless feel.
The Space @ Venue 45, 18 - 23 Aug, 3.15pm (3.50pm), £6.00 (£4.00), fpp 243
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Beating Of The Russian Heart
Beating Of The Russian Heart
Koleso
Russian folk music is strong and spirited, and these seven young women did credit to it with their hearty voices and cheeky smiles. In bright traditional costumes they exuded great energy through through the use of powerful dissonant harmonies and dances with scarves and handkerchiefs. The programme was well-ordered, taking us through various moods and styles; the a cappella sections were the most atmospheric, and it was a pity that when backing music was used it was mostly pre-recorded, which detracted from the authenticity a little, putting them in danger of slipping towards a Eurovision-style pop track. Fortunately, they didn't, and after receiving some dance lessons on stage the audience went away in no doubt that Russia's heartbeat is a passionate one.
C Soco Urban Garden, 13 - 25 Aug, 2.00pm (3.00pm), , prices vary, fpp 141
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Koleso
Russian folk music is strong and spirited, and these seven young women did credit to it with their hearty voices and cheeky smiles. In bright traditional costumes they exuded great energy through through the use of powerful dissonant harmonies and dances with scarves and handkerchiefs. The programme was well-ordered, taking us through various moods and styles; the a cappella sections were the most atmospheric, and it was a pity that when backing music was used it was mostly pre-recorded, which detracted from the authenticity a little, putting them in danger of slipping towards a Eurovision-style pop track. Fortunately, they didn't, and after receiving some dance lessons on stage the audience went away in no doubt that Russia's heartbeat is a passionate one.
C Soco Urban Garden, 13 - 25 Aug, 2.00pm (3.00pm), , prices vary, fpp 141
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Musical Of Musicals - The Musical
Musical Of Musicals - The Musical
Throwaway
As the title not-so-subtly suggests, musical theatre is both subject matter and style for this creative and deftly executed production. The same basic plot was filtered through five musical styles, with four performers showing great versatility and consciousness of the show's purpose throughout. The writing is astute satire packed with specific references, but its niche is also its flaw - although it allowed the cast to demonstrate their ability, the material would only be consistently relevant and funny to the most knowledgeable musical theatre buff. The Andrew Lloyd Webber parody was predictably the most well received, while Jerry Herman seemed lost on most of the audience, and I'm not sure many appreciated the brilliance of the Sondheim send-up.
C too, 17 - 25 Aug, 6.10pm (7.30pm), prices vary, fpp 175
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Throwaway
As the title not-so-subtly suggests, musical theatre is both subject matter and style for this creative and deftly executed production. The same basic plot was filtered through five musical styles, with four performers showing great versatility and consciousness of the show's purpose throughout. The writing is astute satire packed with specific references, but its niche is also its flaw - although it allowed the cast to demonstrate their ability, the material would only be consistently relevant and funny to the most knowledgeable musical theatre buff. The Andrew Lloyd Webber parody was predictably the most well received, while Jerry Herman seemed lost on most of the audience, and I'm not sure many appreciated the brilliance of the Sondheim send-up.
C too, 17 - 25 Aug, 6.10pm (7.30pm), prices vary, fpp 175
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Elizabeth And Raleigh: Late But Live
Elizabeth And Raleigh: Late But Live
Blue Box, Eleanor Lloyd, Festival Highlights, Anthony Field Associates, Underbelly and Skullduggery
With their britches bursting with gags, Sir Walter Raleigh (Miles Jupp) and Queen Elizabeth (Simon Munnery) pull off this glorious display of costumed silliness, following the story of the Queen's relationship with her favourite courtier. Jupp's dashing Raleigh and Munnery's pernickety queen do credit to that quintessentially British obsession with dressing up as our ancestors and ridiculing them, and both actors were on top form. Seeing the pair break character as their own laughter on stage got too much for them was hilarious, especially as Elizabeth force fed Raleigh his beloved mashed potatoes while they sang 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers' to each other, and he knelt at the block in England boxer shorts. Pure showmanship and brilliant entertainment.
Udderbelly's Pasture, 31 Jul - 25 Aug, 10.35pm (11.35pm), prices vary, fpp 48
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Blue Box, Eleanor Lloyd, Festival Highlights, Anthony Field Associates, Underbelly and Skullduggery
With their britches bursting with gags, Sir Walter Raleigh (Miles Jupp) and Queen Elizabeth (Simon Munnery) pull off this glorious display of costumed silliness, following the story of the Queen's relationship with her favourite courtier. Jupp's dashing Raleigh and Munnery's pernickety queen do credit to that quintessentially British obsession with dressing up as our ancestors and ridiculing them, and both actors were on top form. Seeing the pair break character as their own laughter on stage got too much for them was hilarious, especially as Elizabeth force fed Raleigh his beloved mashed potatoes while they sang 'You Don't Bring Me Flowers' to each other, and he knelt at the block in England boxer shorts. Pure showmanship and brilliant entertainment.
Udderbelly's Pasture, 31 Jul - 25 Aug, 10.35pm (11.35pm), prices vary, fpp 48
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Faeries
Faeries
SL Productions
This rarely-adapted tale of two little girls from Yorkshire who caused a stir with photographs of faeries taken in their back garden is an ideal vehicle for musical theatre, so much so that I couldn't believe it hadn't been done before. This was a full-scale production with good orchestration and costuming, and the well-choreographed faeries in their shimmering rags gave some enchanting tinkling moments which defined the production. The storyline had everything going for it but was let down a little by intonation difficulties and the libretto which was a bit hit and miss. This should be a success with younger audiences though, as it accesses a realm of childhood wonder which we all wish we could return to.
Musical Theatre @ George Square, 31 Jul - 10 Aug, 11.45am (1.00pm), prices vary, fpp 170
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
SL Productions
This rarely-adapted tale of two little girls from Yorkshire who caused a stir with photographs of faeries taken in their back garden is an ideal vehicle for musical theatre, so much so that I couldn't believe it hadn't been done before. This was a full-scale production with good orchestration and costuming, and the well-choreographed faeries in their shimmering rags gave some enchanting tinkling moments which defined the production. The storyline had everything going for it but was let down a little by intonation difficulties and the libretto which was a bit hit and miss. This should be a success with younger audiences though, as it accesses a realm of childhood wonder which we all wish we could return to.
Musical Theatre @ George Square, 31 Jul - 10 Aug, 11.45am (1.00pm), prices vary, fpp 170
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Theatre Of Sex
Theatre of Sex
Cabaret Direct
This show professed to "undress sexual phobias", but left me wishing that the clothes had stayed on. Well-meaning but unfunny 'sex therapist' couple Franny Winters and Harm Groespecker trawled through a clumsy piece that barely scratched the surface of taboo, Harm looking like he'd prefer a cup of tea from the pot they sat around, chat show style, than his DIY gimp suit (one of several money-saving erotica ideas). Minimal audience and an absent singer-songwriter may, admittedly, have damaged a show that possibly relies heavily on audience suggestion, but that wasn't the only thing lacking. Certainly don't go expecting anything raunchy; this isn't a show about real sex.
C soco, 30 Jul - 25 Aug (not 11), 8.45pm (9.30pm), prices vary, fpp 236
tw rating: 1/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Cabaret Direct
This show professed to "undress sexual phobias", but left me wishing that the clothes had stayed on. Well-meaning but unfunny 'sex therapist' couple Franny Winters and Harm Groespecker trawled through a clumsy piece that barely scratched the surface of taboo, Harm looking like he'd prefer a cup of tea from the pot they sat around, chat show style, than his DIY gimp suit (one of several money-saving erotica ideas). Minimal audience and an absent singer-songwriter may, admittedly, have damaged a show that possibly relies heavily on audience suggestion, but that wasn't the only thing lacking. Certainly don't go expecting anything raunchy; this isn't a show about real sex.
C soco, 30 Jul - 25 Aug (not 11), 8.45pm (9.30pm), prices vary, fpp 236
tw rating: 1/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Another Kind Of Silence
Another Kind Of Silence
FullCircle Productions
One of the richest kinds of theatrical experience is leaving a performance feeling inspired and changed; not just artistically, but politically and socially too. In this striking piece of theatre, Liz Rothschild plays environmentalist and author Rachel Carson, who took on the chemical industry in the 1950s and 60s in order to make the risks of insecticides such as DDT known. As its writer and sole performer, Rothschild gives a highly accomplished performance; intelligent, subtle and moving. It isn't necessary to know a huge amount about biology and ecology, as Carson's passion is the driving force behind this piece. With beautiful evocations of nature and issues that are undoubtedly no less crucial today, this is resonant and awareness raising, and delivered excellently.
Hill Street Theatre, 1 - 24 Aug (not 11, 18), 3.40pm (4.45pm), prices vary, fpp 183
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
FullCircle Productions
One of the richest kinds of theatrical experience is leaving a performance feeling inspired and changed; not just artistically, but politically and socially too. In this striking piece of theatre, Liz Rothschild plays environmentalist and author Rachel Carson, who took on the chemical industry in the 1950s and 60s in order to make the risks of insecticides such as DDT known. As its writer and sole performer, Rothschild gives a highly accomplished performance; intelligent, subtle and moving. It isn't necessary to know a huge amount about biology and ecology, as Carson's passion is the driving force behind this piece. With beautiful evocations of nature and issues that are undoubtedly no less crucial today, this is resonant and awareness raising, and delivered excellently.
Hill Street Theatre, 1 - 24 Aug (not 11, 18), 3.40pm (4.45pm), prices vary, fpp 183
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Grab Your Coat Love - It's Helm And Taylor! - Free
Grab Your Coat Love - It's Helm And Taylor! - Free
Laughing Horse Free Festival
With Taylor's trademark headband and Helm's trademark hip-thrusts, this pair is out to tickle funny bones with the help of flashing electronic drumsticks and a dose of surreal madness at lunchtime. It's not exactly intellectual or complex, but their gleeful and insistent silliness should get anyone smiling. They have a talent for repeating anything until it becomes funny, as well as being perfectly willing to return their heckles. Their partnership is based more on the concept that two hairy men are funnier than one hairy man than that opposites attract, but with low budget slideshows, games such as 'happy tag' and a peculiar interest in animals, you couldn't ask for much more from free comedy in the afternoons.
Laughing Horse @ The Argyle, 2 - 23 Aug (not 11), 1.30pm (2.30pm), free (non-ticketed), fpp 55
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Laughing Horse Free Festival
With Taylor's trademark headband and Helm's trademark hip-thrusts, this pair is out to tickle funny bones with the help of flashing electronic drumsticks and a dose of surreal madness at lunchtime. It's not exactly intellectual or complex, but their gleeful and insistent silliness should get anyone smiling. They have a talent for repeating anything until it becomes funny, as well as being perfectly willing to return their heckles. Their partnership is based more on the concept that two hairy men are funnier than one hairy man than that opposites attract, but with low budget slideshows, games such as 'happy tag' and a peculiar interest in animals, you couldn't ask for much more from free comedy in the afternoons.
Laughing Horse @ The Argyle, 2 - 23 Aug (not 11), 1.30pm (2.30pm), free (non-ticketed), fpp 55
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Playback Theatre
Playback Theatre
Random Acts Theatre Company
This interactive theatre experience could have gone either way, but I found it unique and intriguing. The premise is that the audience provide the material; they are encouraged to tell everyday stories which the actors then use for improvisations in various styles, using no props but coloured scarves and musical instruments. It's a prime exposition of how the ordinary can become art and how no experience is unworthy of dramatic exploration, and seeing my narrative come to life through the bodies of others was an unexpectedly cathartic experience. Director Tig Land created a warm and relaxed environment in which the audience willingly shared and actors sensitively drew out the essence of each story. Simple but different, and perfect for the Fringe.
Diverse Attractions, 4 - 9 Aug, 3.30pm (4.30pm), £6.00 (£5.00), fpp 224
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Random Acts Theatre Company
This interactive theatre experience could have gone either way, but I found it unique and intriguing. The premise is that the audience provide the material; they are encouraged to tell everyday stories which the actors then use for improvisations in various styles, using no props but coloured scarves and musical instruments. It's a prime exposition of how the ordinary can become art and how no experience is unworthy of dramatic exploration, and seeing my narrative come to life through the bodies of others was an unexpectedly cathartic experience. Director Tig Land created a warm and relaxed environment in which the audience willingly shared and actors sensitively drew out the essence of each story. Simple but different, and perfect for the Fringe.
Diverse Attractions, 4 - 9 Aug, 3.30pm (4.30pm), £6.00 (£5.00), fpp 224
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Growing Up Linda
Growing Up Linda
Cal Arts Festival Theatre
Linda Carvel, heiress to the Carvel Cake empire, has a few problems with her father and an eating disorder. This unusual and visually stimulating production took us into the bizarre wonderland of her mind where puppets, oversized candies and screaming hot dogs tell the story of her demise. Kitsch, camp and often grotesque, this was childhood fantasy with a cult Rocky Horror edge; kooky voiceovers and a debt to celebrity-obsessed daytime television brought the fusion of trashy and glam to its peak. The puppetry along with innovative filming of moving flip books which were projected onto a huge screen made this a really memorable production that mixed visual art and theatre. Not for kids but first-class escapism for adults.
Venue 13, 8 - 17 Aug (not 11), 5.00pm (6.00pm), £8.00 (£5.00), fpp 202
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Cal Arts Festival Theatre
Linda Carvel, heiress to the Carvel Cake empire, has a few problems with her father and an eating disorder. This unusual and visually stimulating production took us into the bizarre wonderland of her mind where puppets, oversized candies and screaming hot dogs tell the story of her demise. Kitsch, camp and often grotesque, this was childhood fantasy with a cult Rocky Horror edge; kooky voiceovers and a debt to celebrity-obsessed daytime television brought the fusion of trashy and glam to its peak. The puppetry along with innovative filming of moving flip books which were projected onto a huge screen made this a really memorable production that mixed visual art and theatre. Not for kids but first-class escapism for adults.
Venue 13, 8 - 17 Aug (not 11), 5.00pm (6.00pm), £8.00 (£5.00), fpp 202
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Luke Toulson: There Are So Many Things I Can't Do
Luke Toulson: There Are So Many Things I Can't Do
Luke Toulson
One way to judge a comedian is by how they handle their hecklers. Luke Toulson had the joy of the drunken Donald who shouted "pussy!" at random. Toulson mastered him with grace and humour (mainly humour) and his relaxed and conversational show continued to flow easily from theme to theme. He's someone you'd like to go to the pub with; frank yet charming despite, or perhaps because of, the self-deprecation which laces many of his gags. This was pretty standard observational humour, but he came up with some witty solutions to the world's major problems, and is an insightful and adaptable personality. As he joked, about his run in the Pleasance cellar, maybe one day the Fringe will let him perform above ground.
Pleasance Courtyard, 30 Jul - 25 Aug, 9.45pm (10.40pm), prices vary, fpp 74
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Luke Toulson
One way to judge a comedian is by how they handle their hecklers. Luke Toulson had the joy of the drunken Donald who shouted "pussy!" at random. Toulson mastered him with grace and humour (mainly humour) and his relaxed and conversational show continued to flow easily from theme to theme. He's someone you'd like to go to the pub with; frank yet charming despite, or perhaps because of, the self-deprecation which laces many of his gags. This was pretty standard observational humour, but he came up with some witty solutions to the world's major problems, and is an insightful and adaptable personality. As he joked, about his run in the Pleasance cellar, maybe one day the Fringe will let him perform above ground.
Pleasance Courtyard, 30 Jul - 25 Aug, 9.45pm (10.40pm), prices vary, fpp 74
tw rating: 3/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Geraldine Hickey - One Week In Paradise
Geraldine Hickey - One Week In Paradise
PBH's Free Fringe
This Aussie lady's short show is not so much comedy as a frank, true story told by someone who just happens to be funny. There's a great attraction in true stories, and it is a bonus that Hickey's is more truth than exaggerated comedy yarn. Not everyone could turn their week in a psychiatric ward as a teenager into a show that entertains and moves, but she does it, and whilst oozing a genuine friendliness and exhibiting a desire to be liked beneath her sarcastic and blunt exterior. Warning that she is going to go 'a little dark on your arses', she doesn't spare us the details of bodily functions, self-harm and difficult personal moments, and holds a room's attention with her raw and refreshing material.
Nichol Edwards, 2 - 23 Aug (not 4,11,18), 4.45pm (5.35pm), free, fpp 54
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
PBH's Free Fringe
This Aussie lady's short show is not so much comedy as a frank, true story told by someone who just happens to be funny. There's a great attraction in true stories, and it is a bonus that Hickey's is more truth than exaggerated comedy yarn. Not everyone could turn their week in a psychiatric ward as a teenager into a show that entertains and moves, but she does it, and whilst oozing a genuine friendliness and exhibiting a desire to be liked beneath her sarcastic and blunt exterior. Warning that she is going to go 'a little dark on your arses', she doesn't spare us the details of bodily functions, self-harm and difficult personal moments, and holds a room's attention with her raw and refreshing material.
Nichol Edwards, 2 - 23 Aug (not 4,11,18), 4.45pm (5.35pm), free, fpp 54
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
REVIEW: Molière's 'Tartuffe'
Molière's 'Tartuffe'
Greene Shoots Theatre
The direction of this highly physical production of Molière's Tartuffe captures and ignites the frenetic energy of the original seventeenth-century French comedy. The story of the foolish patriarch Orgon, duped into giving all he owns to the slimy priest Tartuffe, was relocated very effectively into a modern executive world of suits and swivel chairs, where paparazzi constantly hounded and Tartuffe promised not only salvation but UN diplomacy. Inspired prop usage and a minimal but well-designed set meant that the cast's movement was focused on and the farcical elements of the original work were highlighted. The rhyming script was funny and punchy, and the acting lively and expressive, creating all-in-all a very impressive youth production.
C, 10 - 16 Aug, 11.15am (12.15am), prices vary, fpp 217
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
Greene Shoots Theatre
The direction of this highly physical production of Molière's Tartuffe captures and ignites the frenetic energy of the original seventeenth-century French comedy. The story of the foolish patriarch Orgon, duped into giving all he owns to the slimy priest Tartuffe, was relocated very effectively into a modern executive world of suits and swivel chairs, where paparazzi constantly hounded and Tartuffe promised not only salvation but UN diplomacy. Inspired prop usage and a minimal but well-designed set meant that the cast's movement was focused on and the farcical elements of the original work were highlighted. The rhyming script was funny and punchy, and the acting lively and expressive, creating all-in-all a very impressive youth production.
C, 10 - 16 Aug, 11.15am (12.15am), prices vary, fpp 217
tw rating: 4/5
published: Aug-2008 for Three Weeks newspaper at the Edinburgh Festival
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