Playing Bingo in church? That’s what got five boarding school kids in trouble on their last day of school in the new comedy ‘Something Educational’, written and directed by Rosie MacKay. After this intriguing opening scene, the characters are sent to detention for writing task, which they procrastinate doing, and drama unfolds as they reveal their true thoughts about each other.
The script is witty and light-hearted, with lots of little jokes and nods to the audience – a try at creating a fleabag-style relationship between actors and spectators – Samuel Bergson, playing Robbie, is particularly skilled at code switching between interacting with the other characters and addressing the audience, making his character likable from the beginning. Set and costume design is very minimal, with ‘Something Educational’ relying solely on the actors to convey the story. They found funny moments along with truly emotional scenes. especially Gabrielle Henderson, playing Grace, standing out with her deadpan humour as well as a characteristically and vocally strong performance.
The character Blaire, on the other hand, felt a little underdeveloped compared to the rest, potentially MacKay had her hands full writing and directing the piece and her Character development suffered as a result.
‘Something Educational’ is relatable to many who have gone through ups and downs in their friendships, particularly with high school friends, going through such a formative period of life together, only to then part ways and follow separate paths. The setting – a private boarding school, kids with famous or extortionary rich parents – will be less relatable to most audience members.
There was a performative attempt of self-criticism with one of the characters referencing themselves as ‘privileged private school kids’, but this doesn’t get explored any further and the criticism stays superficial.
It’s young, it’s fun, it’s almost done! If you’re looking for a light-hearted high school comedy this Fringe, catch ‘Something Educational’ before their run ends on the 12th August.
Reviewer: Christina Schmidt
Reviewed: 6th August 2023
North West End UK Rating:
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