ED2016 5/5 Reviews ED2016 Physical Reviews

The Pianist (Aurora Nova presents Circo Aereo & Thomas Monckton)

By Francesca Peschier | Published on Friday 26 August 2016

Thomas Monckton is quite simply a one-man lesson in clowning, who should be on the curriculum of every drama school. In this brilliantly paced, non-speaking show, Monckton blends mime, circus and physical theatre, utilising every part of his body: using all of it to execute back-flips, delivering a whole section performed only by his spotlit fingertips. As a hapless concert pianist – reminiscent of Rik Mayall at his most slapstick – in battle with his seemingly possessed piano, Monckton generates a child-like joy from his audience that makes this show brilliant for Fringe visitors of all ages. From his initial battle with the curtains on entering the stage, building up to a riotous conclusion, ‘The Pianist’ is without doubt more fun than any concerto I’ve ever seen and its performer completely mesmerising.

Assembly Roxy until 29 Aug.
tw rating 5/5 | [Francesca Peschier]