ED FRINGE 2023 REVIEW | Sing, River
★ ★ ★
Reviewer - Eliott
*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
On a midsummer’s evening, we are transported to the bottom of the River Thames, where we meet a boy who is troubled by his past relationship with a boy whom he encountered during his first pride, and many years later, a Halloween party. This boy, unnamed and portrayed by Nathaniel Jones, is making an offering to the rivergods, to represent his golden age, but is confused when the river does not return his calls. Dimly lit with precision from Evie Cakebread, we focus on the words of the songs so elegantly sung by Jones; his soothing voice rings across the bunker, and is the most intriguing part of an otherwise convoluted play.
This original idea from Love Song Productions gives us a setting that is perfect for the fringe, as we escape the bustle of Edinburgh to enjoy the music, and the slick direction from Katie Kirkpatrick, allows Jone’s posture to become the focus, moving with purpose and standing to attention. The plot suffers in not allowing the rise and fall of tension, but the sweet queer stories told breaks Jones away from the moment and gives them a chance to shine with distant memories coming across through solemn expressions. Faye James’ composition rings with beauty too, with soft tones that glide us through and ease us into the story. With trinkets positioned with candles, all scattered on the floor, this new British folklore musical has a bright future.
