Clowning Perfection Through Our Journey to The Land of Cardboard
I know that it seems unlikely to have actually seen The Mr. Cardboard, but once the show ends, you can be under no doubt. The chaotic hour of clowning can only have been delivered by Mr. Cardboard himself.
Miles Calderon brings this character to life. He is wonderfully energetic and watchable at all times. He pushes each set piece until the audience is crying with laughter and has the utmost conviction in the bit. It is a masterful performance from Calderon, that mixes a wonderful physicality with the bizarre and some unexpected poignancy. Calderon’s performance in the final moments brings a level of emotion that I have not before felt at a clown show, but it works incredibly well. No matter who you are, by the end, you are on Mr. Cardboard’s side. He mixes his absurd clowning with a solid use of props as well, including: a phone, bike seat covers, and of course, cardboard. If you like a balloon animal, you will love what Mr. Cardboard can do.
The show brings Mr. Cardboard to us and then travels into The Land of Cardboard, a once magical place that is now filled with sorrow and regrets. We watch Mr. Cardboard trying to rejuvenate this land, by making us happier than we have ever been. It is a very well crafted hour of comedy that never stagnates. The use of sound and lighting provides an extra layer to the piece, and it seems as if the sound tech challenges Calderon to react quickly to whatever prompt is sent his way. It is a brilliant way to add yet more humour to an already hilarious show.
As we reach the end, we have laughed and watched with pure joy. Mr. Cardboard interacts well with the audience, and is never afraid to dive further into the ridiculousness of the character. He could push it even further, and the show would continue to thrive no matter how far the clowning went. There is potential in each moment of this show, which will only continue to grow and get better and better.
The show ends with a miracle, and a heartfelt moment. It is unafraid of the sincerity it brings, before diving back into the absurd. Surely it won’t be the last we see of Mr. Cardboard, who should be a regular at the Fringe for many years to come.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-passion-of-mr-cardboard
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: The Wee Cow at Underbelly, George Square
Dates: 5th – 30th (Not 17th)
Time: 19.20
Ticket prices: £12.50/ concessions £11.50
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 14+ (Restriction)