Tartan Tat – theSpace @ Niddry Street

Having gone into this show with a vague idea of the plot, I could have never predicted what was to come.  While I knew it was about the employees of a tourist shop in Edinburgh, I did not know it would be the sardonic, LGBTQIA+, pop culture spoof that it was.

It is always refreshing to see local theatre in the sea of Fringe, and Shark Bait Theatre executed this piece with an in-touch, tongue-in-cheek attitude that all Scottish folk can resonate with.  The writers, Lex Joyce and Isla Campbell, have produced something that is both hilarious yet compelling in today’s political climate. 

Each character had a strong personality that was communicated well by the cast.  The line delivery left me in stitches – the actors played off each other excellently, further adding to the comedy already written in.  Every person’s performance aided the others, every witty remark made room for an even more amusing response, giving a comedy sketch-like feel to the show.

I feel this is a project with so much more to give – it worked well in the Fringe format, but still has potential to do more.  I would have liked an appearance from Orla’s girlfriend to add some depth to her arc.  Robyn Reilly, who plays Orla, provided much needed stability in the mix of Tartan Treasure’s eclectic payroll.  Her storyline is one of great relevance so I would like a deeper scope on it.

In all, a very silly show made by a very good production company who now have a mountain of very niche props to displace (I’ll happily take the life-size cardboard cutout of Susan Calman).  I look forward to seeing what Shark Bait Theatre does next.

Reviewer: Jessie Martin

Reviewed: 18th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: