Sammy Blew Up a Toilet – theSpace @ Venue45

Sammy Blew Up a Toilet playing at the Edinburgh Fringe for the first time this year was brought to the stage by the Crunch Collective. The play, being inspired by real-life, became a piece that I believe a lot of the audience could relate to, which was clear from the many ripples of laughter that circulated the room throughout the play. For the duration of the show adulthood problems were forgotten and one was transported to a simpler time. Written by Aric Hanscomb-Ryrie and directed by Aydan Macdonald, the comedic piece captured all the minuscular details one may remember from their primary school days (such as Golden time) and turned them into an entertaining play that griped your attention till the last line.

The famous toilet was the main piece of staging that was strategically used in every scene transforming from plant holder to bed to finally a toilet.  This constantly made one refer back to the title of the play and question the importance of this prop. The stage had audiences on three sides of it. The actors in general made great use of the thrust staging, using every member of the cast they created formations that were visible from all three sides. As well as keeping the audience entertained with aspects of physical theatre.

The story was told from the perspective of the character Azza (performed by Aric Hanscomb-Ryrie) and delved into his initial friendship with Jake (performed by Ronan Maccolla). Quickly, however, the dynamic duo became a trio with the introduction of Sammy (played by Zander Mistry). Hanscomb-Ryrie’s and Mistry’s characters clashed in personalities which emphasised the frenemies nature of their relationship even further. Mistry really sold the role as teacher’s pet, through his rigid posture, snappy mannerisms and tense voice.  Hanscomb-Ryrie on the other hand played around with the tone of his voice and tension levels showing Azza’s ranging emotions.

Despite the story mainly focusing on Azza’s and Sammy’s rivalry all 11 actors that graced the stage played a massive role in making the play complete. All actors played the roles as if they were made specifically for them. Everyone maintained high energy levels and it was clear much thought was put behind every character on stage. A truly energy packed performance that deserves a visit. Tickets available at: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/sammy-blew-up-a-toilet.

Reviewer: Marcelina Kruczynska

Reviewed: 19^th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: