Vocally superb.
New musical Edinburgh Days is making waves this Fringe directed by Bafta, Olivier and Tony award nominee Bob Thomson and musically composed by Brian Spence. Thomson comes highly acclaimed with his list of accolades and decades of experience most famously ‘Blood Brothers‘ and ‘Ghost the musical’. Accompanied by the creativity of Scottish born composer Brian Spence who also presents a healthy repertoire in music and theatre.
Edinburgh Days kicks off this week at the St Brides centre. There are certainly moments when it’s incredibly moving however perhaps the pace is a little slow. Whilst the vocal talent is undeniable, there was perhaps a mid week dip in the performer’s energy. However, the delivery landed well when it mattered even though there were some technical issues with sound it never detracted from the high standard put forward by the cast.
Choreographer Caroline Inglis creates a simple but highly impactful and effective movement well suited to the atmosphere created on stage and in keeping with the stories narrative.
As the story is entirely sung it certainly is a tall order for the cast to communicate and at times was slightly difficult to follow. Perhaps more spoken dialogue could aid the pace and the scene transitions, although there were some beautiful moments acted with impressive vocals to boot.
Set design whilst sparse was generally appropriate with well sourced stage props and costumes. Sometimes movement felt a tad static and repetitive although the musical talent kept the focus throughout.
Debbie McKenna (Mary) and Louise Kenny (Jean) are equally matched as vocal powerhouses. Colin Chisholm (MacGregor) and Michael James MacDuff (Robbie) are also beautifully balanced. All 4 characters deliver some emotionally charged scenes with memorable songs such as ‘Edinburgh Days‘ and ‘One of the Best‘ receiving well deserved appreciation from the audience. Not forgetting the vocal talent of both Imogen Vickers (Catriona) and Rory Morar Jeffrey (Davey) who deliver some good chemistry during emotionally raw moments. Corran Enoch-Thoburn (Jamie) plays their onstage son and presents a high level of professionalism throughout. All of the young members of the cast deserve recognition for upholding excellent work amidst a highly professional and experienced cast.
Overall Belt of Celt Productions has presented a well packed show covering a large passage of time in 2 hours with a 15-minute interval. Edinburgh Days is certainly worth a look this festival if you are in the mood for something vocally impressive and beautifully musically arranged.
Music and lyrics by Brian Spence
Book by Robert Johns and Brian Spence
Directed by Bob Thomson.
Edinburgh Days runs at St Bride’s auditorium until 24th August. Tickets here.