The Stage / Edinburgh Reviews

The Lie-In, the Itch and the Whore's Robe, Rocket - Demarco Roxy Art House

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:36:29 +0100

Time never drags in this entertaining and watchable, though insubstantial, physical theatre piece.

Flamenco, Flamenco!, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:19:00 +0100

Fascinating flamenco music and dance, with guitarist Ricardo Garcia.

The Great American Trailer Park Musical, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:13:07 +0100

Trailer trashiness triumphs in a musical bound to become a cult hit.

Deca Dance 2008, Edinburgh Playhouse

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:04:56 +0100

Excerpts from works choreographed by Ohad Naharin, bursting with vitality and wit.

Hollywould ...But Doesn't Think She'll Bother, Laughing Horse @ The Counting House

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:46:26 +0100

Deliberately naive and brutal comedy which breaks all the rules but still succeeds.

Damian Callinan in 'mmm...They're Small', Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:43:15 +0100

Beautifully paced comedy about male infertility.

Devil's Ship, The Hub

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 13:01:43 +0100

Talented foreign company let down badly by weak production values.

I Went to the House but Did Not Enter, Royal Lyceum

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:58:48 +0100

Performance does texts no favours, but emerges as an exceptional event in itself.

An Evening Without Dignity, C Central

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 10:48:46 +0100

Quirky ideas let down by lack of finesse and too few laughs.

Will Hodgson: Chippenham On My Shoulder, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:27:46 +0100

Hodgson maturing into a comedic force to be reckoned with.

Tony of Arabia, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:52:52 +0100

Cleverly constructed musical skit on Tony Blair and Downing Street after his departure.

Nick Mohammed is a Character Comedian, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:30:56 +0100

Crudely constructed characters that nevertheless have an appealing student-orientated charm.

Jim Rose Circus, Udderbelly's Pasture

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:01:55 +0100

Freak show shocks without crossing the line.

The Riot Showgirrrls Club, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:36:00 +0100

Talented singers let down by a show lacking polish.

The Pirate, The Potato and The Camel - In Space, The Space @ Venue 45

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:22:54 +0100

Top Edge finds the right formula again with a fine family show.

The Axis of Awesome Comeback Spectacular, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:19:57 +0100

Surreal, infectious, hilarious songs delivered with great charm.

Pot Noodle the Musical, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:16:22 +0100

Silliness not enough to save a tacky piece of nonsense.

Maeve Higgins - Kitten Brides, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:14:17 +0100

Razor-sharp wit lies below a delightfully dappy persona.

Krol Roger, Festival Theatre Edinburgh

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:18:57 +0100

Highly satisfying modern-dress version proves an apt parable for growing consumerism.

Invasion Festival:The Self-Murder, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:10:53 +0100

Believable characters let down by a narrative thrust that suffers from overly angst-ridden writing.

Class Enemy, Royal Lyceum

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:06:15 +0100

Adaptation's switch to Bosnia succeeds in harnessing energy of ensemble.

Matthew Bourne's Dorian Gray, King's Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 09:15:49 +0100

Bourne enters exciting new territory with a sophisticated, sexy creation.

365: One Night to Learn a Lifetime, Edinburgh Playhouse

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 09:10:03 +0100

David Harrower's play is a disappointing attempt to depict the lives of children leaving care.

Andy White - I Think Therefore I Joke, Laughing Horse @ The Argyle

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 18:11:57 +0100

Engaging but too few laughs are compounded by comic's discomfort with audience.

Invasion Festival:Dance Without Movement, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:55:54 +0100

Elegantly performed, well-directed play that could be improved with more focus on present emotions.

P.I.E., Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:08:29 +0100

Disappointing detective tale fails to live up to high expectations.

John Bishop: Cultural Ambassador, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:06:16 +0100

Everyman observational humour makes for pleasant if joke-light set.

Holdin' Fast, Zoo Southside

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:01:45 +0100

Innovative dance work is beautiful, but lapses with odd interludes.

The Space Between My Head and My Body, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:24:09 +0100

Strong performances are unable to bring enough coherence to the narrative.

Sammy J in the Forest of Dreams, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:21:14 +0100

Mucky-mouthed puppet show is involving, but eventually wears thin.

Paul Kerensa - iPaul: The Great Playlist Challenge, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:17:35 +0100

Geeky musical exploration has a touching, simple message.

One More Than One, C Central

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:12:13 +0100

Stylish dance routines stay in the memory, though the dialogue falters.

Invasian Festival:It Ain't All Bollywood, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:08:41 +0100

Misguided script and caricatured characters let production down.

Brendon Burns in Fk You I'm Brendon Fking Burns (Again) Part IV, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:02:35 +0100

Confrontational, foul-mouthed Burns largely lives up to expectation.

Accidental Death of an Accordionist, Acoustic Music Centre @ St Bride's

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:58:56 +0100

Superb, light-hearted entertainment that ensures a great night out.

The Search for Sunshine, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:10:39 +0100

Story of Death's boredom that has interesting ideas but needs guidance from an external source.

Matt Kirshen - Keep Smiling, Matt. Just Keep Smiling, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:51:08 +0100

Good-humoured, quality material from a likeable comedian, but could be improved with more focus.

Joan Rivers - Work In Progress By A Life In Progress, Udderbelly's Pasture

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:38:28 +0100

Well-constructed show that merges stand-up with drama and reminiscence.

Supper, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:30:14 +0100

Concept piece with pre-recorded monologues that would have worked much better on radio.

Johnny Candon: One Careless Lady Owner, The Stand Comedy Club II

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:17:24 +0100

Well-written observational comedy that deserves more than this hesitant delivery.

I Can't Sleep by David O'Doherty, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:29:34 +0100

Genius comic theatre for children, with natural performances and skilful audience involvement.

The Aluminium Show, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:25:18 +0100

Downright bizarre and inane fun involving a series of passable dance routines.

Esoterica, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:20:15 +0100

Magician Eric Walton combines showmanship, wit and skilled sleight of hand.

Jeff Green: Life Ache, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:19:35 +0100

Easy and uncomplicated comedy focusing on the every-day, rather humdrum, experiences.

I Lost My Laugh In The Revolution, Sweet Teviot Place

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:13:15 +0100

This misguided performance of a tedious monologue is mercifully brief.

Cloudcuckooland, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:09:48 +0100

Energetic and surreal children's theatre with an eco-friendly message.

Chris Cross - Escaping From Reality (!), Nicol Edwards

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:06:45 +0100

Contortionist and escapologist that succeeds in creating an atmosphere of complete lunacy.

Andy Zaltzman Boldly Unbuttons the Cloak of Civilisation, but is Perplexed and Perturbed by what He Finds Lurking Beneath, The Stand Comedy Club

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:01:12 +0100

Sharp and sassy show with satirical political observations.

Bully, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 10:56:37 +0100

Understated monologue of a man who isn't the bully he fears he might be.

Lloyd Langford: Not A Lover, Not A Fighter, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:26:03 +0100

Endearing, laconic stand-up shows early promise and is a natural comedian.

The Weepers, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:37:00 +0100

Beautiful and atmospheric Czech physical theatre about the aftermath of a death in the family.

The Angel and the Woodcutter, Zoo Southside

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:32:30 +0100

Highly accomplished physical theatre based on a Korean folk tale – refreshingly good.

Sushi Tap Show, Greenside

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:09:54 +0100

A delightfully varied programme of comic sketches, mime, juggling and puppetry.

Jason Byrne: Cats Under Mats, Having Chats with Bats, Assembly @ Assembly Hall

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:04:37 +0100

A show that promises to be different every night, but equally wonderful and witty.

Elvis Hates Me!, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:39:09 +0100

A surreal and amusing look at mental health and the cult of celebrity.

Mortal Engine, Edinburgh Playhouse

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:20:37 +0100

Stunning choreography and impressive technology combine in an explosive performance.

Regretrosexual - The Love Story, Sweet Grassmarket

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:08:01 +0100

An entertaining and endearing story about a metrosexual man and his relationships.

James Campbell's Shut Up Stupid, Sweet ECA

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Susan Elkin) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:47:26 +0100

A cheerfully subversive look at a dysfunctional married couple.

Reception, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:34:17 +0100

Hilarious and surreal comedy from an assured duo with strong rapport.

The Magic Tree, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:49:42 +0100

Weak play that at its best rises to the level of a TiE production.

Rosas Steve Reich Evening, Festival Theatre Edinburgh

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:45:05 +0100

A lengthy evening showcasing seven pieces of work, requiring a calm, meditative mindset.

Rob Deering - Boobs 2008, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:37:57 +0100

Rob Deering is more effective in song than trying to tell jokes.

Potency, Squash Courts @ Edinburgh Sports Club

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:34:07 +0100

This site-specific play has strong performances but an unoriginal script.

On the Waterfront, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:30:59 +0100

Translated brilliantly to the stage by Steven Berkoff, this is a polished and fully-realised show.

Mong Yeon (A Love in Dream), C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:22:54 +0100

Evocative live music and imaginative staging that captures powerful moments of passion and loss.

Luke Toulson: There Are So Many Things I Can't Do, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:18:08 +0100

Amiable comic whose audience rapport is stronger than his material.

Another Kind of Silence, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:15:49 +0100

A moving, timely and believable evocation of Rachel Carson.

Lost in the Wind, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:12:33 +0100

Lack of technical proficiency with no real plot that is not quite as original as it thinks it is.

Auditorium, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:57:09 +0100

Plenty of audience interaction with some strong comic performances.

Beth Becomes Her, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:50:00 +0100

A successful combination of good story and gifted delivery.

Apes Like Me, C Soco Urban Garden

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:42:16 +0100

Fun-packed and relaxed hour of comedy banter that will send you home enlightened.

Plague! The Musical, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:29:28 +0100

An unlikely topic produces a delightful tongue in cheek musical.

Jumping The Shark, C Cubed

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:24:37 +0100

A sketch show with a nicely skewed sense of humour.

Diary of a Nobody, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:19:00 +0100

A warmly humorous hour in the company of a delightfully innocent Victorian clerk.

Burtscher, Goldstein and Howell: Live at the Phoenix!, The Pheonix

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:12:40 +0100

A trio of free fringe comedians live up to the expression, 'you get what you pay for'.

Tied Up In Knotts, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:04:38 +0100

Karen Knotts delivers an intensely personal account about growing up with a famous father.

One Small Step, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:59:25 +0100

An energetic cast conveys excitement, hope and wonder in a tale about the US-Soviet space race.

Transient, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:44:24 +0100

More installation than play, this fascinating but slight show takes place in the Pleasance's vaults.

We All Fall Down, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:43:19 +0100

A mix of the sinister and the silly is told with gusto, with a clever use of space, scale and props.

Lucky You, Assembly @ Assembly Hall

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:38:15 +0100

Slapstick farce which benefits from an energetic cast, pacy dialogue and inventive direction.

The Tell-Tale Heart, Royal Lyceum

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:36:33 +0100

Atmospheric and at times terrifying production with a mesmerising performance from Niedermair.

The Caravan, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:30:34 +0100

Beautifully understated performances by four actors capturing the humour of the different speakers.

Stephen Grant - Second, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:28:27 +0100

Engaging stand-up Stephen Grant delivers first-class material celebrating being second.

Jidariyya, Royal Lyceum

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:26:13 +0100

A lyrical and beguiling piece of theatre which is perhaps a little inaccessible.

Gamarjobat - The Western, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:21:31 +0100

The punk mime artists deliver a mixed bag of iconic physical comedy and cliched characters.

Invasian Festival: Soul Traders, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:18:26 +0100

Exuberant new musical comedy about soul music and the Salvation Army.

Mixed Bill: Sagalobeli/Duo Concertant/Bizet Variations (Pas de Six)/Chaconne, Edinburgh Playhouse

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:12:08 +0100

These four pieces range from the delicate to the vibrant and invigorating.

Danielle Ward in Glorious Technicolor, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:10:10 +0100

Skilful, well-written stand-up comedy from Danielle Ward that brings stories alive for the audience.

Alyssa Kyria: Woman of the Year?, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:09:23 +0100

A pleasing portrayal of a brassy and brash host confidently delivered by Alyssa Kyria.

How's Your Father?, Rocket - Roxburghe Hotel

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:07:56 +0100

Wholly predictable piece of physical theatre without a story or even distinct characters.

Off Her Trolley, The Vault

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:02:50 +0100

Eleanor Bennett has written an insightful and witty script but her performance is less strong.

Invasian Festival:Three Flying Solo, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 09:54:01 +0100

Imran Mirza delivers a strong performance as the outwardly naive but inwardly ambitious man.

Adventures of Butt Boy & Tigger, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 09:52:52 +0100

Hilarious internet chat that only falls flat when reality kicks in.

Deborah Frances-White's 'How to Get Almost Anyone to Want to Sleep with You - The Advanced Class', Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 09:49:57 +0100

Frances-White dishes out some comic advice and good-natured banter on seduction.

Closing Time, The Space @ Jury's Inn

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 09:46:30 +0100

Chandrika Chevli does her best, but the script and direction leave the show inert.

Scottish Dance Theatre, Zoo Southside

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:37:12 +0100

An intensely beautiful and thought-provoking double bill which is delicate, honest and gripping.

The Just In Case, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:35:56 +0100

Non-verbal, highly visual, playful children's show about the things people carry 'just in case'.

Phantomysteria, Old College Quad

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:24:13 +0100

A sporadically stunning combination of pyrotechnics and movement-based theatre

Motherland, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:23:21 +0100

Insightful verbatim theatre based on interviews with women whose loved ones have served in Iraq.

Creation & All That Jazz, Augustine's

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:11:16 +0100

A great idea let down by poor direction and a lack of vitality on stage.

Meltdown: The Ultimate Gameshow, The Space @ The Thistle

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:10:12 +0100

A fusion of parody gameshow and whodunnit which has solid shape and sparkling characterisation

Andrew Bird - This is Ten Years From Now, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:06:03 +0100

A natural comedian with a honed act of observations and anecdotes.

Lost Soul Music, C Central

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:03:25 +0100

A hammy and repetitive rendition of a tedious, if occasionally evocative, shaggy dog story.

Mark Watson: All the Thoughts I've Had Since I was Born, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:56:23 +0100

A string of associations produced by the hyperactive imagination of a likeable Welshman.

All Dressed Up To Go Dreaming, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:14:45 +0100

A highly literary narrative which requires more theatrical engagement with the audience.

Theatre Of Sex, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:00:43 +0100

In the style of a sex therapy session, this smutty show is cheap rather than thrilling.

The Rebel Cell, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:48:26 +0100

A rare and inventive experiment that can be ramshackle but is also filled with energy.

The Exquisite Corpse, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:37:55 +0100

Some neat ideas in a hit and miss theatrical parlour game.

The Bird and the Bee: The Bird, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:31:54 +0100

Tom Ferguson gives a nervy starring performance in a wacky, clumsy and unbelievable tale.

Dark Grumblings, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:11:59 +0100

A sparkling script, clever effects and energetic actors make this both funny and terrifying.

Britt Ekland: Britt on Britt, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:01:28 +0100

Former Bond girl Ekland shows vulnerability as she reflects on her life and lovers.

The Bang Gang, Zoo Southside

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:31:09 +0100

Strikingly original musical show excels with some brilliantly written dark humour.

New Electric Ballroom, Traverse Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:26:24 +0100

Excellent cast lifts demanding tale to create powerful story that lingers in the mind.

Love For Sale, Rocket - Demarco Roxy Art House

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:21:55 +0100

Show's lack of originality compounded by misguided and offensive plot twist.

Waxing Cynical, Laughing Horse @ Espionage

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:22:04 +0100

Strong performances and effective telling of narrative create satisfactory tale.

Transgression, C Soco Urban Garden

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:07:00 +0100

Daredevil antics provide thrills and spills for an exhilarated audience.

The Gymnast, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:03:04 +0100

Lack of engagement with the audience results in banal treatment of a serious subject.

The Factory, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:00:17 +0100

Harrowing concentration camp experience proves to be totally immersive theatre.

Felix Dexter - Not Just Another White Guy Lost in the Shuffle, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:57:08 +0100

Eloquent stand-up's confident humour proves to be infectious entertainment.

A Pirate's Life For Me, C Central

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:49:37 +0100

Fast-paced, entertaining action adventure let down by disappointing acting.

Mommie and the Minister, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:27:36 +0100

Dark, malevolent tale of imprisoned twins still has space for comic bad taste.

Edges, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Mark Shenton) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:57:08 +0100

A new musical revue that announces a songwriting duo of edge, bite and brilliance.

Old Girls, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:36:24 +0100

Poor plotting lets down an otherwise amusing black comedy.

Dan Atkinson: The Credit Crunch and Other Biscuits, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:01:26 +0100

No-nonsense stand-up bonds well with his audience and weaves them into his show.

Who's Afraid Of Howlin' Wolf, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:44:20 +0100

Tale of lost love tries too hard to be epic, when a smaller story would suffice.

Vincent, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:40:35 +0100

Confident show presents a moving evocation of Van Gogh through the voice of brotherly love.

The Mozart Question - Michael Morpurgo, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:35:36 +0100

Dark but moving story of survival, love and music that is highly evocative.

Simon Callow - A Festival Dickens, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:19:58 +0100

Callow's haphazard performance suggests further rehearsal could help show realise its potential.

Now Is the Hour, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:11:10 +0100

An inventively staged, if formulaic, wartime shipwreck story.

Nick Doody - Tour of Doody, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:01:27 +0100

Comic's scattergun approach finds more laughs than most.

Dragonlady: Being Anna May Wong, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:58:57 +0100

Portrait of thirties Hollywood star captures only part of her complexity.

By The Way by Noelle Renaude, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:54:16 +0100

Tale of a road trip that is as much emotional as geographical, let down by disappointing cast.

The Golden Voyage of Sinbad, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:19:03 +0100

Company combines well to deliver action-packed, panto-style kids' show

Sa-Choom, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:15:25 +0100

Enthusiastic celebration of dance can't help but win the audience over.

Inside Yerma, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:06:08 +0100

Gender switch heightens unusual interpretation of Lorca masterpiece.

1913 or Nude Descending a Staircase, Sweet Grassmarket

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:59:28 +0100

Stylised but muddled tale of female emancipation.

This Must Be The Place, Rocket - Roxburghe Hotel

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:41:36 +0100

Monologue delivered in an unhelpful and dislikeable monotone.

The Straight Man, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:38:04 +0100

Exciting show, full of unexpected twists and memorable quips.

The 'American', The Coloured & Me, Laughing Horse @ The Counting House

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:32:05 +0100

Featuring some nice characterisations, the show is structurally a mixed bag.

Pericles Redux, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:50:17 +0100

A fusion of muscularity, humour and verse - of varying standards.

Not Stalking David Tennant (AKA Having It All), The Vault

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:43:11 +0100

Emma Hutchins' one-woman show features a variety of colourful characters.

A Cold Slap Down Under, Laughing Horse @ The Argyle

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:33:28 +0100

Two very different comedians deliver one of the better comedy shows on the free festival circuit.

Table 23, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:21:38 +0100

An inventive piece of physical theatre about a cafe full of eccentric characters.

Nick Revell - Sleepless, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:00:30 +0100

A solid set with genuine laughs, but Revell is slightly unsure of his comedy voice.

Lichentongue, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:46:51 +0100

A frustrating mix of satire, comedy, character study and drama which is ultimately incoherent.

Gavin & Gavin - It's a Long Road That Doesn't Have a Bend, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:42:44 +0100

A pleasant reflection on childhood tales that doesn't break any boundaries.

Fall, Traverse Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:38:09 +0100

An intense drama about a country and its people dragging themselves out of post-war decline.

Whiskey Bars, The Vault

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Mark Shenton) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:29:50 +0100

Neatly orchestrated, clever and well performed mix of Kurt Weill classics and cabaret character.

Bridget Christie: The Court of King Charles II The Second, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:05:50 +0100

An occasionally zany comedy show with charm and broad appeal.

On the Island of Aars, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Mark Shenton) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:56:43 +0100

Surreal new musical that requires complete surrender, or it becomes hard work.

Wanderlust, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:51:41 +0100

Imaginative interactive theatre with filmed sequences, loud music and puppetry.

Miss Sign-on, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Mark Shenton) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:47:15 +0100

The appealing cast fail to rescue this musical portrait of an unemployed diva.

Borderline, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:47:02 +0100

An evocative and energetically performed solo piece about mental illness

Ha Ha Hamlet, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:41:31 +0100

With cross-dressing, clowning and sexual innuendo, this production is essentially pantomime.

Cannibal! The Musical, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Mark Shenton) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:36:39 +0100

Laboured, lumpen and plot-heavy spoof of a spoof.

Big Bruvva - The Musical, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:34:08 +0100

The reality show is an obvious target to satirize but it eventually gets into its stride.

Absolution, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:05:11 +0100

Gripping, brutal tale about a man who kills paedophile priests.

The Three Musketeers, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:56:26 +0100

Playful, charming version of the tale that revels in its low production values.

Carey Marx: Careyness, The Stand Comedy Club III & IV

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:50:41 +0100

Intelligent stand-up about taboos that is both funny and thought-provoking.

The Factory, Zoo Southside

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:39:44 +0100

Challenging, experimental theatre that creates a nightmare vision of the future.

What All The Rabbits Are Doing, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:26:30 +0100

The unfocused script is unable to create tension between the characters.

Simon Brodkin is Lee Nelson, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:20:58 +0100

Edgy comedy via a yobbish alter ego that left the audience feeling tense and uncomfortable.

War Of The Worlds, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:16:36 +0100

Some riveting moments but production is too detailed and repetitive for the stage.

The Two Widows, Festival Theatre Edinburgh

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:09:33 +0100

Romantic and comic tale that does full justice to the music.

Paperweight, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:08:02 +0100

Vision of two men teetering on the edge of sanity in an office, with original and funny touches.

The Absurdity of Vanilla, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:00:38 +0100

Despite the occasional witty line, the script isn’t coherent enough to entertain.

Out of Your Knowledge, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:57:18 +0100

Appreciation of this play largely depends on your interest in the 18th-century poet John Clare.

Global Warming is Gay, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:52:57 +0100

Peopled with engaging characters and peppered with juicy one-liners, Heggie's script is great fun.

Frida Kahlo: Viva La Vida, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:48:59 +0100

Gael Le Cornec plays the tortured Mexican painter skilfully, mixing the flirtatious and the serious.

Elizabeth and Raleigh: Late but Live, Udderbelly's Pasture

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:42:30 +0100

Simon Munnery as Queen Elizabeth I commands amused attention from the start.

Confessions and Obsessions of a Thirtysomething Divorcee, The Vault

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:32:39 +0100

This Bridget Jones-type saga could do with a livelier pace but achieves what it sets out to do.

One Day I'll Go to Compostela, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:46:20 +0100

Monologue with moving moments, but the structure isn't strong enough to make it compelling.

Departure Lounge by Dougal Irvine, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:25:18 +0100

Boisterous, crude and well-observed humour adds cheeky charm to this energetic musical.

The Third Condiment, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:55:17 +0100

An engaging satire of both capitalists and do-gooders

Stefan Golaszewski Speaks About a Girl He Once Loved, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:50:34 +0100

A touching and evocative account of lost love.

Mime for Laughs, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:29:24 +0100

A mime artist who relies heavily on music and sound effects.

Justin Moorhouse's Ever Decreasing Social Circle, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:08:18 +0100

Comic's digressions are stronger than his theme of real friendship.

Isy Suttie: The Suttie Show, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:53:21 +0100

Modest show of amiable songs and stories.

Invasion Festival:Another Paradise, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:44:49 +0100

Telling satire of an identity card future, more comfortable with the humour than the politics.

Funk it Up About Nothin?, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:26:24 +0100

Hip hop Shakespeare true to the original and fun in itself.

Frank Woodley - Possessed, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:17:20 +0100

Rubber-limbed clown at his best in physical humour.

Dermot McMorrow: 13 Black Cats in the Shape of a Magpie, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:09:04 +0100

Low energy comic struggles to raise chuckles.

Dan March - My Myspace Baby, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:00:12 +0100

A personal story of unexpected fatherhood which is of limited interest to others.

Potted Pirates, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:50:04 +0100

Incredibly funny all-singing, all-dancing show with appealing sets and jolly music.

Greyfriars Twisted Tales, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:43:19 +0100

Hilarious musical expedition through the horrible history of Edinburgh.

Giselle, Edinburgh Playhouse

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:35:09 +0100

Splendidly traditional production faithfully evokes the mid-19th-century era of Romantic ballet.

Borough Market, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:27:57 +0100

Strong and convincing characters and effective use of flashback results in riveting theatre.

Clarkson & Crouch: Away with the Fairies, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:23:35 +0100

Good gags that would benefit from more coherence and concentration on the visual side of the comedy.

Charlie Victor Romeo, Udderbelly's Pasture

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:03:59 +0100

Verbatim theatre set in the cockpits of doomed aircraft

ABFCAP: The Life and Times of Ian Dury, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:58:25 +0100

A touching and convincing portrait of a rock legend.

Beautiful People (Don't Travel Economy), Sweet Teviot Place

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:52:02 +0100

Comic air hostess from hell on a budget airline

A Real Humane Person Who Cares and All That, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:36:25 +0100

A political drama weakened by soap opera elements.

Up The Republic!, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:28:37 +0100

Tedious humour reinforced with laboured direction and shrill performances.

The Highwayman, C Cubed

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:16:58 +0100

Ambitious adaptation of Noyes' poem with strong visuals but lacking its intended contemporary edge.

Strange Bedfellows, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:11:32 +0100

The hard-working cast struggle with accents and Spencer's artificial characters in this farce.

St Nicholas by Conor McPherson, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:02:25 +0100

The strength of McPherson's writing carries Dineen through this conventionally theatrical monologue.

Stephen K Amos - Find the Funny, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:51:36 +0100

This show about getting older and out of touch needs more jokes than it delivers.

Shakespod, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:49:54 +0100

A fusion of verse, iPods and the 1968 student riots in Paris that brings the Bard to young people.

Only the Brave, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:45:07 +0100

A slick musical set in the Second World War which is entertaining but lacks an edge.

Queen of Wyoming, Musical Theatre @ George Square

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:43:14 +0100

Simpson's strong voice leads the way in a charming one-woman show.

Danny Robins - Dannyfest, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:34:48 +0100

A comic with real charm in an energetic, feel-good show.

Cure, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:30:56 +0100

Slick and engaging satirical farce that achieves extremely high standards on a low budget.

Why We Ate Cliff Richard, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:24:01 +0100

Sharp script and strong performances had the audience in stitches.

Whacker Murphy's Bad Buzz, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:20:27 +0100

This fluent and skilled script is matched by an energised performance.

There's Something In The Fridge That Wants to Kill Me!, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:15:32 +0100

Don't be put of by the self-analytical subject matter – Gregson delivers a charismatic performance

Broken Nails, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:09:42 +0100

Compelling, original and weird, skilled performer and Marlene Dietrich puppet share the spotlight.

Silence in C Minor, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:09:25 +0100

This enjoyable romp has a comic script that ensures there is never a dull moment.

Beyonce - Stop Punching Robbie!, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:09:08 +0100

A potential seam of comedy gold that needs its details to be refined.

My Grandfather's Great War, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:06:18 +0100

Moving and powerful depiction of serving on the Somme frontline during the First World War.

Baldanders, Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:58:51 +0100

Technically accomplished but largely incomprehensible Polish puppetry in English.

I Shot Dirty Den, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:57:47 +0100

Honest story with a winning combination of dramatic tension and comic release.

Andrew Clover - Dad Rules, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:52:56 +0100

Delightful and downright dirty tales of parenting, delivered with zest.

66A Church Road - A Lament, Made of Memories and Kept in Suitcases, Traverse Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:49:27 +0100

Stand-up comedian Daniel Kitson turns to theatre with a witty, touching and topical monologue.

Glenn Wool - Goodbye Scars, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:48:56 +0100

Extremely funny show from Wool, whose stage confidence has grown.

Anna The Slut & The (Almost) Chosen One, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:45:02 +0100

This entertaining show isn’t high art, but it isn’t aspiring to be.

21:13, C Soco

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:43:06 +0100

Physical theatre with beautifully mimed sketches, but the central narrative falls short.

Adventures of an Orgasm Donor, Laughing Horse @ Espionage

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:40:46 +0100

Shame to see a stand-up who once showed promise offering up this dog’s dinner of a show.

... Etcetera ..., Hill Street Theatre

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Nuala Calvi) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:38:19 +0100

Disturbing, flawless puppetry with punch.

Lough/Rain, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:26:55 +0100

Sombre and engaging double bill of plays, with powerful performances throughout both.

Everyone We Know, C

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:24:40 +0100

Self-indulgent experimental physical theatre that lacks context and fails its audience.

Face in the Crowd, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:21:46 +0100

Narratively coherent and original piece of physical theatre by the company of 12 performers.

Dad's Money, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:19:53 +0100

Play fails to explore its characters enough and descends into a pointless slanging match.

Breathing Corpses, Sweet Grassmarket

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:15:49 +0100

Young company shows promise, but the production ultimately lacks inspiration.

The Shadow, Underbelly's Baby Belly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:13:39 +0100

Fine physical performances ultimately fail to capture the magical nature of this fairy tale.

In A Thousand Pieces, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:08:16 +0100

Superbly realised political message makes for disturbing but absorbing viewing.

Des Clarke - Desire, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:05:26 +0100

Good ideas and talent let down by over-quick delivery and gags with limited appeal.

Call Me If You Feel Too Happy, Sweet Teviot Place

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Maria Hodson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:00:44 +0100

Strong solo performance elicits comedy and tragedy in good measure to win the audience over.

Arthur Smith's Arturart 2008, Arturart

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:57:05 +0100

Commendable attack on pretentiousness let down by disappointing, misdirected humour.

Andrew O'Neill's Totally Spot-on History of British Industry, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:45:29 +0100

Lack of focus lets down an otherwise courageous attempt to both educate and amuse.

Adolf Hitler and Mother Teresa Walk into a Bar, Voodoo Bar

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:38:01 +0100

Early promise let down by poor production and two oversized egos.

Invasion Festival: Rainbow Ride, ClubWEST @ Quincentenary Hall, The Royal College of Surgeons

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:50:46 +0100

Multimedia work is visually appealling, but lacks necessary subtlety.

Ginger & Black, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 17:19:07 +0100

Deadpan musical comedy pairing are a delicacy to be savoured.

Domestic Goddi, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 17:16:04 +0100

Double act full of good ideas, but lack snappiness and fail to establish distinctive personalities.

Diet of Worms: Friends of the Puffincat, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Duska Radosavljevic) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 17:01:05 +0100

Comedy ensemble with good audience rapport and a knack for fine musical numbers.

The Jabberwock, C Central

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:57:13 +0100

Impressive physical set pieces fail to make up for lack of storyline.

Shafted, Rocket - Roxburghe Hotel

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:52:26 +0100

Repetitive script and poor acting add up to a frustrating, unconvincing whodunnit.

Mary Postgate, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:46:56 +0100

Kipling tale evokes the era, but characters lack sufficient psychological depth.

Literally, The Zoo

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:38:38 +0100

Humorous Powerpoint lecture on language has its high points, but is ultimately stretched thin.

Foreskin's Lament, Pleasance Courtyard

noreply@thestage.co.uk (William McEvoy) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:33:41 +0100

Rich dialogue sadly let down by undisciplined ensemble acting.

Wilson Dixon Rides Again, The Stand Comedy Club III & IV

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:13:21 +0100

Meandering journey through country music is charming, but falls short on quality.

Count Arthur Strong - The Man Behind the Smile, Assembly @ George Street

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:02:08 +0100

Classic character has matured into a magnificent mess of comedy.

Barry and Stuart: Part-Time Warlocks, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Ollie Wilson) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:57:03 +0100

Hugely entertaining comedy magic pairing look set to be one of the hits of the festival.

The Magic City, Pleasance Dome

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Brian G Cooper) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:37:26 +0100

Elaborate scenery and eager performances result in a satisfying hour for children.

The Sword of Maximum Damage, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:04:25 +0100

A dramatic examination of the world of obsessive fantasy game-playing

The Patriot Act, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:53:23 +0100

An Arthur Miller-like play about a playwright falling foul of American anti-terrorist laws.

Shoppers Without Borders, Gilded Balloon Teviot

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:45:04 +0100

Erin Donovan conjures up a character that many find a strain to be in the company of.

Richard Herring - The Headmaster's Son, Underbelly

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Gerald Berkowitz) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:11:25 +0100

Including excerpts from his teenaged diary, Herring reflects on how his youth shaped his character.

Restitution, Rocket - Demarco Roxy Art House

noreply@thestage.co.uk (Thom Dibdin) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:08:41 +0100

A painting sets off a wordy play with some strong material, but not the staging it deserves.