Muse by FLIP Fabrique – Assembly Hall

Muse is an empowering, magical and witty show like no other that explores gender and social pressures in which we put on ourselves and others.

Football or Ballet? Two sport industries designed for all, but gender assigned by the masses. What happens when a girl wants to play football? A man wants to be a ballerina? Or neither fancy either path? Delve into these topics with the use of acrobatics, circus skills and song (although for the most part the music is in French).

The show carries throughout the symbol of the apple, the first sin. But to look in to the first sin is to decide if it was indeed a sin or just a woman making a choice. Muse urges you to take the apple like eve, break the rules and be who you really are. Despite little speech the whole performance is innovative and moving.

The performers themselves are exquisite and so incredibly skilled.  Expect daring and dangerous stunts such as aerial acrobatics, pole movement and dance. Comedy sketches are used throughout, and we see the birth of a new drag artist. Every performance is driven and covers subjects such as: gender stereotypes, self discovery, the strength of women working together and racial challenge.

A highlight of the performance for myself had been the use of the famous poem “Still I rise” by Maya Angelou accompanied by the most brilliant pole skills. The sheer strength of these performers is impressive.

I would highly recommend seeing this show even if it’s the only show you have time for whilst around for the fringe. The company is Canadian, so they won’t be around for long, and you do not want to miss this spectacle. It’s as close to perfection as you will find in the Fringe. Moving. Funny. One hell of a feel good party.

Muse plays at the Assembly Hall near the Mound until the 28th August (excluding 22nd) everyday at 17:20, https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/muse-by-flip-fabrique

Reviewer: Beth Eltringham

Reviewed: 20th August 2022

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★