Sunday, December 22

Author: Jessie Martin

Into the Woods – Paradise in Augustines
Scotland

Into the Woods – Paradise in Augustines

When an amateur theatre group announces they will be performing a Sondheim musical, usually I brace myself for the worst. Bare Productions however, completely defied my expectations with their rendition of the classic, Into the Woods - it’s no wonder they have a sold-out show. The cast were exceptional - manoeuvring around the complex rhythms with ease and creating a real sense of emotion in their performances.   The numbers in which the whole cast sang together were incredibly powerful – it was clear a real focus on the musicality was made – the emphasis on the dynamics of the song truly packed a punch – kudos to the musical director.  Everybody in this cast showed the potential to go on to work professionally.  I do have to give a special mention to the ugly...
The Court – Hill Street Theatre
Scotland

The Court – Hill Street Theatre

If you fancy yourself a sleuth, a Judge Judy, or even a Jeremy Kyle, this show is for you.  The Court, produced by Edinburgh Little Theatre, invites audience members to participate in a mock trial, testing their powers of discernment and morality.  Cathy, the defendant is accused of illegally euthanising her terminally ill mother.  It is up to the audience to decide whether it was murder, or manslaughter.  With pie and drink retrieved (both of which are included in the ticket price), we were guided into the courtroom.  The braver members of the sell-out audience got the chance to volunteer as the jury, getting a seat next to the witness stand right amidst the action.  “All Rise!” shouts the judicial assistant, and so it begins.  The interactive ...