Does the program of this year’s Fringe make you dizzy? Don’t worry, because we’ve picked out some interesting, girly and atmospheric finds from this year’s venues. All you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the shows!
1) 600 People by Third Angel (Summerhall)
I had a classmate who was into physics. We were often found walking by the river while he tried to explain string theory or quantum physics to me. And it was mind-blowing. 600 People is going to take us straight into the world of astrophysics – doing it through stand-up. It promises to explain huge ideas, explore the stories we tell to understand our place in the cosmos, and what it means to be human. And all of it in a light and entertaining way. I’m in!
2) ABCs to LSD by Growing Pains Theatre Company (theSpace @ Jury’s Inn (Venue 260)
I have always had a weird obsession with memory boxes. To go through years and years of what my mum calls trash and experience how every little note or pastel-coloured pony brings back different faded memories. This play seems to do just that. It’s about four girls who share their experience of growing up. Or as the description says: “An autobiographical walk of shame”.
3) Adventures of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl by Rebecca Perry Productions (Gilded Balloon)
Have you ever wanted to be an anthropologist? I have – and this play seems to know it! It’s about a girl who gets a job as an anthropologist in Tanzania. Adventures, romance and songs – what more could you ask for from musical theatre?
Adventures of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl at #FringeTO was hilarious, beautiful and the perfect way to end a day of theatre. #ilovetheatre
— Joel Cumber (@CoelJumber) July 7, 2015
4) Almost, Maine by American High School Theatre Festival (Churchill Theatre)
We should not miss winter yet, but this play really brings me back to my childhood in Estonia with meter-high snow, ice-skating under starry nights, mittens and the northern lights. Almost, the mythical town in Maine, looks exactly like that, and its residents find themselves falling in and out of love.
5) As You Like It
I’m in a complicated relationship with Asia. I love the food, nature and culture, but I hate that they don’t understand the concept of privacy. Nevertheless, a 1920s Chinese-inspired version of Shakespeare is something I wouldn’t want to miss, even just to see the colourful costumes.
6) Bricking It by Joanna Griffin (Underbelly Cowgate)
How many times have your relatives dropped a comment about your creative studies wishing you’d gone for an “honest” job? Well, welcome to my life! Joanna Griffin’s play hits the spot. She is a 29-year-old writer/performer and her father is a 73-year-old builder. They swap their jobs. The father learns how to be a performer, while the daughter builds the stage for her first Edinburgh Fringe.
7) Fran & Leni by Old Trunk (Assembly George Square Theatre)
I have never been a rebellious punk, but my best friend dyed her hair orange and my sister ran around wearing a fork as a necklace. So, it’s kind of part of my past. Frani & Leni takes us way back to 1976 London, and is a perfect play for anyone who loves punk, sex, fishnets and spitting.
8) Happiness is a Cup of Tea by Annie McKenzie (Pleasance Courtyard)
I already loved ukuleles before I even had one. So, surely I cannot skip a play about a stormy night on a cliff top, cups of tea, a ukulele, storytelling, being the youngest and grief…
Saw @Annie_Mck in her one woman show Happiness is a Cup of Tea. Wonderful mix of emotion and laughter. Go see at Edinburgh Fringe @edfringe
— Laura Samson (@LauraSamson_LS) July 15, 2016
9) The Lake of Dead Languages by Caduceus (The Royal Scots Club)
If you’re into Donna Tart’s Secret History, mysteries, classic studies and all-girls schools, then this play is for you. Secrets, tragedy and rituals on the lake – it’s an adaption that will probably lead you to read the novel.
10) The Echo Chamber by Trimaran Productions (Spotlites)
Why do some British teenagers leave for Syria to become Jihadi brides and fight? I must admit that I have no personal connection with the topic and I’m as radical as a fly, but the question of where that extremism comes from haunts me every now and then. Curious? Go and check it out!
Which plays are you most looking forward to seeing at the Fringe? Let us know in the comments below!
