In the surreal world of “Befuddled,” two tooth fairies, Olett and Pebbles, find themselves on a mission that takes a dark turn. Instead of the usual setting of a child’s bedroom, they arrive in a grim prison cell, where they observe two grown men, Mason and Lewis. The contrast between the whimsical fairies and the bleak reality of the prison creates an atmosphere that is both unsettling and thought-provoking.
Cathryn McDougall and Lily Paton bring Olett and Pebbles to life with a blend of bemused innocence and sharp wit, navigating the strange situation with humour that has a dark edge. Their characters, unaccustomed to the harshness of adult life, are thrown off balance by the unexpected sight of grown men living in such dire conditions.
Darren Higham and Jack Hannah deliver strong performances as Mason and Lewis, capturing the grim reality of their characters’ existence. Although they never interact directly with the fairies, their presence adds weight to the narrative, highlighting the harshness of the world the fairies have stumbled into.
“Befuddled” stands out as a play that challenges conventional fairy tale tropes, using its fantastical elements to explore more serious themes. The mix of humour and darkness, combined with the strong performances, makes for a compelling and memorable experience that lingers long after the final scene.
For tickets and more information please visit https://contactmcr.com/events/befuddled
Reviewer: Brian Madden
Reviewed: 20th September 2024
North West End UK Rating: