EDINBURGH 2025: Review: MARY: A GIG THEATRE SHOW, Gilded Balloon Patter House
Gives us 'gig', but lacks in 'theatre'
Mary: A Gig Theatre Show is a cool concept. It advertises itself as a blend of folk rock music and spoken word formulating a feminist retelling of the story of Mary Queen of Scots. In theory it feels inspired by the hit show SIX, but with it's own unique voice. The idea of a 'gig theatre show' suggests an interesting new form to explore within the realm of performance. Unfortunately, in practice the show certainly gives us 'gig', but lacks in 'theatre'.
There's no question we have some talented musicians here. All songs are original, very catchy and enjoyable to listen to. We have an abundance of beautiful sounds ranging from a violin to a harmonica. Unfortunately where the show suffers is the long narrations inbetween each song. Poetic monologues are delivered quietly and monotonously while other cast members sit or stand, looking blankly into space or at the speaker until it is over. This feels like a missed opportunity to weave the 'theatre' element into this 'gig theatre' show - we could act out the scenes, include choreography, choral words, mime, puppetry... literally anything. But nothing happens acting-wise, and it never really does.
Furthermore, costumes were cool and really evoked a punk-rock vibe, yet nobody really committed to a punk-rock persona. There's definitely promise here, but ultimately It just felt like a myriad of missed opportunities.
The songs are fun and a good time. If you like gigs, go for it. However I'd definitely consider renaming this Mary: A Gig Show.
Mary: A Gig Theatre Show is at the Gilded Balloon Patter House until 21 August.
Photo Credit: Carla Watson
Reader Reviews
Get Broadway News on WhatsApp
Receive the latest updates, breaking news, and exclusive coverage from Broadway directly in WhatsApp.
|
Elvis in Chaos Lime Studio at Greenside @ George Street (8/07-8/15) |
|
Father, Away She Goes Zoo (Playground 1) (8/07-8/30) |
|
Jitters Summerhall (Old Lab) (8/06-8/30) |
|
Spin Cycle Underbelly (Clover) (8/05-8/31) |
|
Copycat Pleasance Dome (Jack Dome) (8/05-8/31) |
|
Kevin Quantum: Invisible Force Ballroom at Assembly Rooms (Venue 20) (8/06-8/30) |
|
Lifelong Studio 2, Assembly George Square Studios, EH8 9LH (Venue 17) (8/05-8/17) |
|
Venue Premium - Two Doors Down OVO Hydro (9/25-10/11) |
|
Heated Rivalry: The Musical Parody! Gilded Balloon Patter House - Other Yin (8/05-8/30) |
|
How Not to Make it in America Summerhall (Former Gent’s Locker Room) (8/06-8/31) |