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Latest items? Unedited? Fringe Report Uncut
Swansong
Verdict: Intense theatrical introspection
Edinburgh 05 - C Electric - 16:30 (00:50)
Swansong is a 50-minute play with one performer.
An actor (Andy McQuade) is locked in a theatre. He's woken from a drunken sleep after celebrating 20 years on the fringe. He ponders his past, present and future.
The actor is a tall man with black hair and a face full of character. He's in bare feet, black trousers, a V-fronted white vest, and actorly green cape. There are short extracts from his many roles, all grossly over-acted.
Swansong is a satire and pastiche of all the worst things about theatre. Unfortunately, the script is uninteresting. Though the character has unlimited ego and there are some potentially funny clips - such as the cameo with an inflated prop - it remains flat.
Company Act Provocateur is the resident repertory company at London's Lion & Unicorn Theatre. Swansong actor Andy McQuade and director Victor Sobchak are principals of the company.
Victor Sobchak will not be accused of subtlety or understatement as director. There is a strong directorial presence. Some may feel that Swansong is awful in all its parts - script, acting and direction. Others may admire company Act Provocateur for its dedication to fringe theatre in London and Edinburgh, and the unusual nature of its productions.
Cast Credits: Performed by Andy McQuade.
Company Credits: Adapted by Victor Sobchak and Andy McQuade. Director - Victor Sobchak. Technical Operator (none). Company - Act Provocateur.
END
John Park
reviewed Thursday 14 July 05 / Lion & Unicorn Theatre
Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2012
www.fringereport.com
