Roe McDonnell
If you want a wholesome, silly and well written theatre courtroom case for both children and adults alike then The Uncrackable Case is one for you!
What is the case you ask? Humpty Dumpty was found dead but did he have a great fall like the nursery rhyme? Did he jump? Or was he pushed? This is what filmmaker Jill (yes, as in Jack and Jill) is on trial for as the last person seen with him.
With an amazing book by Jamie Walsh and direction by Olivia Race no reference and fairytale character was left unmentioned within the all female powerhouse ensemble; Emily Spowage, Ariana Duce, Claire O’Connor and Purvi Parmar. Each actor playing almost 10 characters between them and sometimes playing a character that a different actor portrayed 10 minutes before but each actor kept each distinct character the same even when multiple people were playing them which I really enjoyed.
And of course each quick change is made possible by the amazing designer Celia Perkins. From motorcycle helmets made into egg head to the incredible courtroom set. Each vibrant colour and detailed prop bringing us a step closer into the world
The audience solves the case at the same time as the characters, which adds an interesting perspective you don’t usually see in children’s theatre. It would’ve been interesting if it was immersive as the ending is decided by a gold envelope given to the audience and the audiences ‘votes’ at the end of the story. As the envelope already has its decided verdict the audience participation and alternate ending would have added a potential new perspective (and to keep the performers on their toes!)
The performance also integrates Creative Captioning (which is always a win in my book!), which for a Fringe show is hard to do but executed flawless and surprisingly easily with a panel built into the set and an operator at the back of the auditorium who was having the time of her life. This also tells you the character who’s speaking which is especially helpful for the fast paced nature.
You can catch The Uncrackable Case until August 25th at Pleasance Two at Pleasance Courtyard from 13:30 (60mins). Tickets are available through the EdFringe Online Box Office.
Jasmine Silk
Phoebe Bakker
