Based on real stories gathered from conversations and social media, new musical #NoFilter follows three duos and the effects social media has on their lives and relationships. One pair are friends, Sina (Jamie Douglas-Turner), who runs an OnlyFans, and Ember (Vincenzo Dipasquale), who links us with the next two couples, Pandora (Eva-Marie Blaire) & Candor (Sirus Desnoes), and Savannah (Natalie Gray) & King (Aaron Andrews). The former’s relationship is defined by social media, having started on Tinder and seemingly fallen apart through Instagram, while the latter’s was formed in person.
Dipasquale’s Ember is the glue of the show, linking not only the characters but also stories and numbers through his narration, and Dipasquale’s likable performance helps paper over some narrative cracks. Despite the diverse stories and characters on display, Jack Storm’s book feels unfocused, perhaps due to an uncritical look at the “true stories” prioritising reporting over significance.
However, the lyrics (also by Storm) and pop-rock score by Daniel Ruffing are well done and energetically brought to life by the talented leads and ensemble. The accompanying choreography, often done in clinical white, faces lit up by the LED screens of the characters’ phones, also keeps the show propelling forwards. As such, its ambition and talented cast make #NoFilter an energetic and fun addition to the musical genre.
#NoFilter is running at Greenside @ George Street until August 24th (not 18th). Tickets can be found at: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/nofilter
Reviewer: Oliver Giggins
Reviewed: 16th August 2024
North West End UK Rating: