“Charming and Funny, with a whole lot of heart”
Sleeping Warrior and Play Pie and a Pint bring Crocodile Rock to the Fringe. It is an inspiring coming-of-age story revolving around growing up in Milport. Stuck on the small Island of Cumbrae, we follow Steven McPhail as he goes on his journey of self-discovery.
Andy McGregor writes this piece, which is a fabulous and contemplative musical. It explores Steven finding his sexuality, and discovering his true identity. Not without its troubles, McGregor manages to find joy from the hardships. It is all part of Steven’s story, and builds him into the person we see at the end. It is heavily musical, with most of the narrative driven by song. The musical direction, by Hilary Brookes, who also plays the pieces live, is excellent. She crafts beautiful and thoughtful pieces that also engage in difficult subjects while also being so full of joy. The piece is further aided by the dramaturgy of Johnny McKnight. McKnight and McGregor have worked well together in building this piece, which is a joy to watch from start to finish.
The play is performed by Darren Brownlie, who puts in an epic performance. He commands the stage from the moment he arrives until the final piece of the play, never wavering in his commitment to the role or the power of his vocals. He is a very talented singer and wonderful actor, who breathes life into this journey. We go on an emotional journey in this piece, and that is in no short thanks to Brownlie. He balances the poignant with the comedic well, building to a devastating finale. Vocally, Brownlie is pitch perfect, and has a natural warmth that makes us fall in love with Steven from the opening song.
The piece is beautiful, aided by every partner in this endeavour. The stage is beautifully presented, and the lighting is fantastic. And while the piece can be a little overdramatic at points, maybe needing a quieter moment or two to really pull at the emotional heartstrings, it doesn’t take away from the raw power of this story.
This is a piece for fans of Scottish theatre and musicals alike. It is a celebration of what local companies can achieve, and a production that never wavers from being utterly itself. A truly wonderful and uplifting show from a talented group of creatives.
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/crocodile-rock
LISTINGS INFORMATION:
Venue: Dining Room at Gilded Balloon Teviot
Dates: 5th – 31st August (Not 11th, 18th, 25th)
Time: 16.30
Ticket prices: £18.00/ concessions £16.00
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 12+ (Guideline)