EDINBURGH 2014 - BWW Reviews: BILL CLINTON: HERCULES, Assembly George Sq, August 10 2014

Bill Clinton: Hercules is a play which is presented as a TED talk by the 42nd US president. The staging is simple, a single armchair and table, and it's just us and Bill as he talks candidly about his time in office.

We begin with a bit of background about Clinton. He tells the audience about his childhood and family set up. He was inspired in his late teens meeting John F Kennedy and knew that he wanted to inspire others in the same way. He discusses his other heroes and what led him to his chosen career. He also speaks about Hillary's own campaign for presidency and declares his unwavering support for his wife.

Bob Paisley is incredibly charismatic as Bill Clinton. He is undeniably charming (more about that later) and gives a very convincing performance. There are a lot of political issues covered: air strikes in Kosovo, the Iraq war and pay inequality in the US.

Bill Clinton: Hercules has been so well done. The script is fantastic and the lighting is very subtle and effective. The venue choice is also excellent as it is a lecture theatre which seems so fitting for this kind of performance. There are a few funny moments in the script but the very strong message behind the piece is one of hope and inspiration.

I made the grave error of sitting in the front row for Bill Clinton: Hercules and was targeted as his Monica for the performance. On my way out of the theatre I was told by other audience members that they were pretty sure that's me sorted for a date this evening.

I would strongly recommend going to see Bill Clinton: Hercules. I would also recommend that if you are brunette and in your mid 20s not to sit at the front.

Bill Clinton: Hercules runs at the Assembly George Square until August 24th.

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