Sunday 7 August 2011

Day 2 Roundup

Broken Wing, Venue 13. A crowded set muddles a simple story; some winning cultural observations can't make up for a lack of depth. Fair. 2/5

Flirt Fiction, Space North Bridge. Like a Marmite dildo - not to everyone's taste. Vulgar, misdirected, although oddly pleasurable. 2/5

I Hope My Heart Goes First, St George's West. Strong performances all round from a scarily young company, but show needs more insight. 3/5.

Idiots of Ants, Pleasance Courtyard.Don't break any comedy boundaries, but by George these boys can work a crowd. Slick as they come. 4/5.

The Investigation, Zoo Southside. Committed performances, but the physical and musical accompaniment woefully overeggs the pudding. 2/5

Penny Dreadful's Etherdome, Assembly. Gleaming eyes and manic laughs from performers and audience alike. Crowd-pleasing, knockout stuff. 4/5

Release, Pleasance Dome. A sage look at criminal justice. Blisteringly relevant work, complete with fiery, heartfelt performances. 4/5

Vikki Stone, Gilded Balloon. She might have a sweet smile and rosy demeanour, but Stone's comic songs are wonderfully filthy. 3/5