“One of the best pieces of theatre at the Fringe”
As the play closed, an entire audience shot up from their seats. A well deserved standing ovation for an incredible piece of theatre. The play follows Keron, on his journeys with careworkers, highlighting the hardships of reliance on strangers and the unending merry-go-round of said people entering his life.
We follow, for the most part, Keron, played by Keron Day, meeting Dani, played by Lauren Koster. The two form a bond that verges on reliance on each other, and the lies and secrets between them lead to a heartbreaking climax. The piece is autobiographical, based on Keron’s own experiences. It is incredibly written to showcase the struggles that he has felt in these moments, encapsulating the tough times that he has had to reckon with.
Each of the players in this show shine in their own way. Day is an incredible actor, who has a knack for comedy and drama in equal measures. Koster is a bundle of energy, and absolutely joyous to watch. She brings a resounding energy to the play that makes the end all the more tough to swallow. A variety of characters are played by Martha Walker to excellence. She appears to be a chameleon, who can easily slip between roles without issue, while also providing some beautiful musical backing. Rounding out the cast is Merle Powell-Smith, who works tirelessly as the musical accompaniment with Walker. The songs that accompany the piece only add to the flawless brilliance of the play.
The piece is directed by Alex Howarth, who takes care to ensure that everyone is represented well and truthfully. The actors take breaks and take time to introduce themselves, breaking the forth walls throughout. It is a perfect example of accessibility in theatre, and one we need to take heed from going forward. We need more pieces of theatre like this.
The show will make you tear up, and is dramatic and upsetting, but do not be fooled, it is also incredibly funny. The cast find humour throughout which only aids the piece. It is beautifully balanced and a wonderful watch. It feels cruel to only be stuck in a five star system, as I truly believe this deserves a lot more than that. It is one of the best pieces of theatre I have ever seen in over a decade at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/you-and-me-and-whoever-comes-next
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: Old Lab at Summerhall
Dates: 6th – 29th August (Not 12th, 18th, 25th)
Time: 15.00
Ticket prices: £17.00 / concessions £14.50
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 12+ (Guideline)