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Latest items? Unedited? Fringe Report Uncut
Superheroes
Verdict : Responsible fathers
Edinburgh 06 - Pleasance Courtyard - 2-27 Aug 06 - 15:45 (1:00)
When two dads climb a crane, they discover much about fatherhood and each other. Batman 1 (Toby Longworth) has the poorer costume, and has numerous partners and children. Batman 2 (Alan Francis), with the better costume, has been unjustly treated. After arguing about being a superhero - and why one of them hasn’t come as Robin - they begin to reveal their characters.
Batman 1 swears at approaching helicopters. Batman 2 tells him off - children may be watching. Batman 2 has problems of his own exposed when a scared police constable (Graham Elwell) joins them.
The PC is worried that they may harm each other. They say they won’t - their cause is the same – but differences appear. The officer knows his superheroes: he asks why they chose Batman - a rather dark character - married to Catwoman - an evil character? Superheroes aren’t the right image. Are they responsible enough to be fathers? To be men?
Superheroes covers the changing role of fathers - and what masculinity means - with some great comedy. Trousers are lost, but farce is avoided. There’s a sad and unexpected ending.
The acting is good, the characters believable. The superheroes show they are not super, just confused and desperate. ‘What families need are better fathers. Fathers who stay. Responsible and loving fathers.’
Cast Credits: (alpha order): Graham Elwell – Police Constable. Alan Francis – Batman 2. Toby Longworth – Batman 1.
Company Credits: Director – Maggie Inchley. Writer – David Spicer Technical Operator – Nic Watson. Company – Richard Bucknall Management. Website - www.rbmcomedy.com. Edfringe Programme note: Suitable for ages 16+.
END
(c) Peter Andrews 2006
reviewed 11 Aug 06 / Pleasance Courtyard
Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2011
