Make-believe is something made up, but Alice Mary Cooper really makes you believe what she’s saying is true. In this story-by-the-fire tale of Australian swimmer Elizabeth Moncello, Cooper’s welcoming demeanour and mellow diction guide her audience through the motions of learning to swim like a mermaid. Personal in every way, from the fact it’s written by its performer to how she introduces herself as having met Liz, this piece is something for those of us who like to imagine. If you fancy a rest from Fringe bedlam then this is just the ticket, but on the other hand it’s probably not for everyone. With this touching, intimate and unique experience, Cooper still has me questioning: surely Elizabeth Moncello was real?

Laughing Horse @ The Counting House, until 23 Aug (not 12, 19), 11.30am.
tw rating 3/5 | [Natasha Gartside]