FRINGE – Horse – Queens Theatre

By Caroline Melia

There was a small audience for the first night of this comedy/physical theatre cross over: though  this didn’t stop the laughs coming thick and fast; the classic uses of coconut shells setting the mood from the start, be prepared to giggle even when it feels inappropriate.

If you have ever had any interest in horses, this show takes all you know and love from the stables and twists it into a comedy of silliness and satire with some darker edges.

The physical elements of the show have hints of cabaret, ballet and acrobatics, including an unexpected aerial swing (but I don’t want to spoil the surprise too much). There is a wonderfully observed dance that can only be described as ‘human dressage’ and its clear that things are going to get darker after this.

There is some banter back and forth between the audience and the performer, these moments are well structured and engaging ; don’t be surprised if more than one of the audience ends up on the stage at the end.

This show keeps you guessing throughout as to exactly where it is heading, costume changes are as surprising as they are comic and the live singing creates some quite poignant moments of reflection.

The show was well received at the Edinburgh Festival and has travelled well from the UK, I hope it’s as successful in its run here.

Kryztoff Rating   4K

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