STUART BOWDEN: REVERSING INTO THE FRINGE
Having wowed our reviewers not once, not twice, not thrice, but four times in total at the Fringe (and actually five times, because two reviewers insisted on seeing his 2011 show), Stuart Bowden arrives at the Fringe with another new show this August. 'Wilting In Reverse' is a "strangely compelling story with live music, vigorous dance moves, understandable words and a fair bit of profound (probably life-changing) body movement". And if sounds like Bowden hadn't really figured it out when he wrote his show blurb, you're probably right, his shows usually evolving right up to Fringe kick-off, and well beyond. But the results are always worth experiencing. We spoke to Bowden to find out more.
ThreeWeeks' Chris Cooke chats to Stuart about his 2015 show here |
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ANDREW RYAN: FORMER PI TURNED STAND UP
Andrew Ryan maybe 'Perfectly Inadequate' at the Edinburgh Fringe this year, but in a previous life he worked as a private investigator for the insurance industry. Which might seem like an odd career from which to jump into comedy. But oh no, PI work is a great prep for the world of stand-up. Or so says Andrew himself.
Check out Andrew's ThreeWeeks column here |
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THREE TO SEE: DELECTABLE DUOS
ThreeWeeks Co-Editor Caro Moses puts the focus on the cabaret Fringe and picks out three highly recommended duos.
The Gideon And Hubcap Show (pictured)
This interestingly named act consists of "21st century troubadour" Gideon Irving and historical musicologist and and jazz lecturer Nate 'Hubcap' Sloan, who together present a highly original set of what has been described as "an eclectic collection of songisms and theatrification; a multi-instrumental hybrid of concert, cabaret, variety show and stand-up comedy". The duo are from New York, and this show has already made its way across the US to high acclaim, so I definitely, absolutely, can't wait to see it.
Underbelly, George Square, from 5 until 23 Aug
Morgan & West: Lying, Cheating Scoundrels
Morgan & West are long term favourites with the ThreeWeeks reviewers, who have been following their every Fringe move for some years now, and throwing myriad superlatives their way. This is an intimate performance for a tiny audience and it's already been on at the Festival and anyone who has seen it loves it. So chances are it's pretty much sold out already. If that's the case, do go and see their children's show instead – 'Morgan & West's Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show For Kids (And Childish Grown-ups!)' on at Underbelly Med Quad – which I pretty much guarantee you'll love, no matter how old you are.
Just The Tonic at the Community Project, from 6 until 30 Aug
Tales From A Cabaret
Here's another act intent on wooing me with their kazoo-based promises, as well as, of course, their fine reputation for most excellent vaudevillian cabaret performance. The duo behind this show are The Creative Martyrs, renowned for their dark, satirical work and their command of the ukulele and cello, and they are keen to manipulate, corrupt, exploit and violate you with their storytelling and song… so, watch out, but watch them.
Voodoo Rooms, from 8 until 30 Aug |
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THREE TO SEE: A TRIO OF DRAGON SHOWS
ThreeWeeks Co-Editor Caro Moses surveyed the children's programme this year and immediately zoned in on three dragon-themed shows. Obviously.
Dragon (pictured)
Dragons abound in children's literature and other media, and it's no wonder, given they're a bit exciting – what with all that damsel-baiting and fire-breathing – and yet they're safely mythical and/or fictional. It's also not difficult, usually, to find them at the Fringe. Though the first dragon show that caught my eye was this, actually on at the Edinburgh International Festival, a family show aimed at "adults, teenagers and children with vivid imaginations". This award-winning wordless piece, delivered via the medium of physical theatre, original music and puppetry, tells the story of Tommy, a boy struggling since the death of his mother, who one night comes face to face with a dragon.
Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh, from 14 until 16 Aug
The Last Of The Dragons
This second dragon event caught my eye because it's based on a short story by late great writer E Nesbit (she of 'Railway Children' and Bastable series fame) and I have always been a bit of a fan of her works. The show follows the story of a prince and princess who wish to break away from their traditional roles in life, as they discover the secrets of the last living dragon on earth. The adaptation comes courtesy of award-winning production company Manhattan Children's Theatre, who have assembled a highly trained and experienced Scotland-based cast.
Pleasance Courtyard, from 5 until 31 Aug
Land Of The Dragon – Gwlad y Ddraig
This sounds like a delightful and enchanting show from another award-winning troupe, puppeteer specialists PuppetSoup. Described as an "adventure through time, landscapes and legends into a world of folklore, myths and ancient stories", you can be sure to expect a visually exciting and enthralling show that will capture the imagination of audience members of all ages.
Scottish Storytelling Centre, from 5 until 31 Aug |
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