REVIEW: 3 stars to #OnSomeFarShore @ Greenside @ George Street @edfringe (make sure you select the right handles when putting into social pages)
‘A delicate and emotional musical carried well by the cast’
#review #edinburgh #edfringe #whatson
SHORTLINK
A delicate and emotional musical carried well by the cast
The premise of On Some Far Shore is an exploration of a grieving Son looking back at his relationship with his Mother. We follow his search for the perfect words to celebrate the life of his Mum while grappling with a faltering relationship.
Thomas Perry leads the cast as Euan, and puts in a good performance. He is vocally strong and does well to convey a struggling writer putting too much pressure on himself. He is joined by Francesca Knoop as his partner, Isla. Again, she plays this character well, conveying emotional depth as someone who is trying to be supportive while struggling with their own issues within their troubled relationship. The cast is rounded off by Nicole Palka, who plays the mother, Helen. She appears as fragments of memories, exploring the relationship with Euan and the ups and downs they experienced.
The script is written by Louis Benneyworth and Madi Bouchta, with Benneyworth also writing the score. The script is a nice exploration of these issues, and hits emotive beats throughout. The songs back this up nicely, creating a piece that pulls at the heartstrings and examines the effects of grief.
One of the standout parts of the piece is the direction, by Bouchta and Adam Paterson. They use the small space well, and cleverly utilise minimalist props to create some wonderful imagery. The ship and the puppet son were two highlights of the piece, adding to an already emotive performance.
This musical does feel as if there is room for it to grow, and will no doubt continue to develop. There is a need for more dynamism in the music, added harmonies and more complex refrains would add in some of the songs. The final musical number utilises all the actors’ voices together, creating a sound that was lacking in the earlier numbers. There is also room to plumb further depths into the emotional journeys of these characters in the script, to really feel and understand the hurt of each of these people.
This is an enjoyable watch, and one that hits some nice beats while showcasing a talented bunch of performers.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/on-some-far-shore
LISTINGS INFORMATION
Venue: Mint Studio at Greenside @ George Street
Dates: 7th – 22nd August (Not 16th)
Time: 10.25
Ticket prices: £16.00 / concessions £13.50
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 12+ (Guideline)