A masterfully crafted piece, blending darkness with physical comedy
This February, the Traverse Theatre plays host to the 17th annual Manipulate Arts Festival, an esteemed celebration of excellence within the realms of animated film, puppetry, and visual theatre. This festival endeavours to showcase the pinnacle of international and Scottish artistic contributions, delivering an unparalleled experience to audiences across Edinburgh.
One standout presentation during this festival is The House by Sofie Krog Teater, a production that in my opinion, absolutely demonstrates the theme of “excellence.” The narrative unfolds during the final days of an elderly woman, her beleaguered nephew Henry, and his conniving wife, Flora, who oversee the Warehouse Family Funeral Home situated in the lower levels of their residence. As the characters navigate the complexities of inheritance and shifting wills, a dastardly plan by Flora is set in motion, leading to a series of uproarious misadventures when bumbling burglars and a dog embodying the spirit of the deceased aunt enter the scene.
The House is a masterfully crafted piece, blending darkness with physical comedy, a surprising achievement within the realm of puppetry. Sofie Krog and David Faraco exhibit exceptional proficiency in voicing and manipulating the eccentric characters inhabiting the House. Despite the limited articulation of the puppets, the duo ensures a seamless conveyance of character identities and emotions, a testament to the artistry of designer and puppeteer David Faraco.
The production is further enriched by its abundance of charm, meticulously detailed set design, and intimate and focused lighting. Cuco Pérez’s unsettling musical score adds a layer of tension to the whimsical and comical moments.
This show is sure to be a hit and it is my sincere hope that Sofie Krog Teater will be back in Edinburgh with future productions, expanding upon the success of The House. Regrettably, the show was scheduled for only two sell-out performances at the Manipulate Festival, and a longer run would allow so many more to enjoy this wonderful piece. Considering the set’s requirement for more intimate performance spaces to be fully appreciated, tickets are going to sell fast at all future performances, so make sure to book early!
Sofie Krog Teater emerges as a company of considerable promise, and The House stands as a testament to their artistic prowess. Manipulate Arts Festival runs in Edinburgh from 1-11 February, featuring a diverse program of cutting-edge productions, so make sure to book now or miss out on this wonderful showcase!