ED2016 5/5 Reviews ED2016 Theatre Reviews

Grimm: An Untold Tale (Fiercely Spun)

By Andy Leask | Published on Saturday 20 August 2016

This is a story about stories, but one that doesn’t get bogged down in self-indulgent meta-commentary; rather, it explores the stories of the real women who provided the brothers Grimm with their tales. Within those lives there are echoes of their fictional counterparts – a strong, nonconformist girl; a sickly woman locked in a tower – the comparisons are clear, but handled with a deft, light touch. In this delightfully playful show, the three actresses, with live musical accompaniment, embody a series of roles, maintaining a tight grip on the audience’s attention and emotions. The threat of Napoleon’s army hangs over proceedings, but really it’s the unfairness of patriarchy – represented here by the credit-stealing Grimms as much as the soldiers – that is the true villain.

Underbelly Cowgate, until 28 Aug.
tw rating 5/5 | [Andy Leask]