Hawksley Workman, the one man of this one-man show, is a phenomenally talented multi-instrumentalist, and this is why ‘The God That Comes’ is so disappointing; it should be excellent. Before the ‘official’ show begins, Workman provides the audience with a brief summary of Euripides’ ‘The Bacchae’, the fable upon which this new musical is based, and it is delivered with an engaging, flirtatious charisma. The stage is strewn with instruments and costumes that whisper such promise. Unexpectedly, the ‘official’ show comprises a succession of repetitive songs, lyrics screamed and barked, ill-defined characters taking turns to sing their part. Excessive microphone reverb and low-lighting attempt to create atmosphere, but this slow-moving rock cabaret misses the mark.

Summerhall, until 24 Aug.
tw rating 2/5 | [Hannah Cutting]