Why We Ate Cliff Richard demonstrates how devoted fans and friends can be to an iconic pop star. Hank Marvin (Chad Mason) plays his guitar. Snatches from Wired for Sound are followed by Summer Holiday and Apache. Projected behind him are photos of fans, Cliff Richard, LP covers and publicity material. Hank is interrupted in his reverie by Harry (Daniel Benoliel) and Tony (Jonathan Donahoe) rushing madly about with suitcases.

They are on their way to a convention of Cliff fans at Castle Cliff in Switzerland. Tony is the true Cliff Richard fan, Harry, his best friend. Their adventures on the journey and at the resort are punctuated by Hank with his guitar and his knowing looks.

Finally Tony and Harry reach the Bachelor Boy hotel at Castle Cliff and meet Norman (Jonathan Donahoe / Daniel Benoliel) whose voice has suffered from trying to sound like Cliff. When Harry produces a strange fancy dress costume, they win the competition - a limo ride with Sir Cliff.

Up to now all has been light hearted knock-about fun with some well-timed comedy. But the ride in the limo is a ride into terror and tragedy. Cliff does not sound himself, a device called an Omeletter 8000 joins in, and a sudden explosion / clap of thunder is disastrous. Harry and Tony survive, showing their true dedication to Cliff. There is a Messianic moment, then all is sweetness and light at Christmas.

The title gives away the ending. The plot takes some devious and unexpected turns to get there. The acting is believable even in the most unlikely circumstances. Chad Mason's Hank Marvin stitches it all together with music that is all Cliff's – but it has a creepy, unearthly quality. The swing from happiness to horror and back again is remarkable. Sir Cliff will never seem quite the same again.

Cast Credits: (alpha order): Daniel Benoliel - Harry / Norman. Jonathan Donahoe - Tony / Norman. Chad Mason - Hank Marvin.

Company Credits: Writers - Jonathan Donahoe, Daniel Benoliel. Associate Director - John Terry. Producer - Veronica Humphris. Designer - Louie Whitemore. Bus and Costume Design - Abbey Mason. Sound Design / Technical - Chad Mason. Assistant Producer / Technical - Sean-Lysie Rudder. Stage Manager / Props - Rachel Humphris. Poster Design - Tim Hughes. Press - Will Young at SOLD productions. Company - The Roaring Boys. Website - www.whyweatecliff.com.

END

(c) Peter Andrews 2008

reviewed Friday 8 August 08 / Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh

Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2012

www.fringereport.com