Step into the theatre and enter a world of love, life and marbles. ‘A Concert of Stories’ is exactly as described: a collection of fairytale-style fables with (very loud) marimba and drum accompaniment. The show is executed with verve and enthusiasm, and Patrix is a commanding narrator, with Edsjo providing accompaniment and back-up characters. And yet, despite the fantastical words and their obvious skill, I rarely found myself immersed in the experience. The stories were conveniently twee, the music more often jarring than supportive. The rest of the audience appeared spellbound: I frequently found myself staring at my shoes, counting down the minutes. A talented piece, but suitable only for those with a high tolerance of Gallic whimsy.

Scottish Storytelling Centre, 13 – 28 Aug (not 22), 7.00pm (8.15pm), £6.00 – £8.00, fpp236.
tw rating 2/5
[kw]