Chaotic masters of musical improv comedy
Each night, this group of talented improvisers must create a brand new musical, based off of a historical character. While the definition of historical character can be stretched by the audience (suggestions included Spongebob Squarepants, for example), this performance we were treated to a musical about Lightning (Jake) McQueen, the titular car from the Cars movies.
From this moment, we entered a chaotic world where cars dream of racing on top of other cars, everyone had the same mother, and there is but one lonely human mechanic. It is almost impossible to tell anyone what to expect, other than laughs and some amazing performers on the stage.
The performers were, as mentioned, immaculate. They took any suggestion given and rolled with it, leading to more and more farcical situations. Each scene built to an equally emotive and hilarious conclusion. These are improvisers at the top of their game.
The songs that these performers build from nothing were excellent, seamlessly following the beats of the musical form, but never feeling forced or out of place. How anyone can be so able to think as rapidly as this group is beyond me.
Which leads onto the musicians. They expertly traversed the story and built the bare bones for some truly magnificent songs throughout. These two are absolutely incredible, and blend a more classic musical number with hip-hop sensibilities brilliantly. A moment should also be taken to celebrate the technical team, who can programme the most apt lighting sequences from nothing without a second going by.
The most joyous thing about the performance is how much fun everyone in the building is having. The performers laugh, the musicians cackle and the audience join them for the entirety of the show.
It is utter chaos, the dancing is ridiculous, the situation is farcical and the harmonies messily come together in front of your eyes. And how brilliant that becomes, knowing that this is all as new to the performers as it is to the audience.
An absolute example of why the Edinburgh Fringe is the most wonderful arts festival in the world. Fun, fabulous chaos everywhere you look!
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/shamilton-the-improvised-hip-hop-musical
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: Studio One at Assembly George Square Studios
Dates: 5th – 30th August
Time: 19.50
Ticket prices: £18.50 / concessions £17.50
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 14+ (guideline)