Like a pair of iconic Midsommer maidens, in mediaeval garb, replete with silly Wicker Man – style animal head hats Rebecca Biscuit and Louise Mothersole prove that It is possible to be desperately sad and have fun at the same time.
Incredibly brave to have put this on at all, set against the tragically young death of Adam Brace, the duo’s long time director (and Rebecca’s partner), this is a rollercoaster of a show full of laughs but also barely held tears, that leaves you admiring, nay loving, this duo even more.
Along the way, we discover that badgers enter a torpic state, which is quite different to hibernation! We sing about John Barleycorn, some even drink the drink of John Barleycorn, but remember, There are rules!
Much of the show focuses on their new found love of Folk, because they are sad. Their account of a visit to a legendary Yorkshire Folk Club and it’s mysterious burning down shortly after turns the middle section into a sort of hilarious whodunit. A Folk festival on shrooms and meeting Steeleye Span and buying the tea towel are also highlights of their ‘Folk revival period’.
The music is the real star of this show, both playing and singing, these are two seriously talented ladies with ethereal, haunting voices.
My guess is that they will be moving on, so if you are a fan of this genre don’t miss this. Even if you are not a fan of this genre this is definitely one to catch, while you can.
These two vessels may have been smashed, but, like Japanese Kintsugi, they come back even more beautiful and perfectly formed.
Reviewer: Greg Holstead
Reviewed: 7th August 2024
North West End UK Rating: 5
Running time – 1hr