EDINBURGH FRINGE REVIEW: The Eulogy of Toby Peach, Underbelly

When he was 20 years old, roughly two and a half thousand days ago, Toby Peach was diagnosed with cancer. Now in remission for the fourth year, his self-delivered eulogy is the story of his life, how he fought cancer twice and how he lived to tell the tale.

It’s a superb solo show, written with care, emotion and strangely bags of wit and energy. We laugh throughout and then are left icy cold when Peach’s storytelling demands it. 

Scenes set in the Cancer Club depict cancer as a sleazy but alluring character, mixing cocktails for the audience and making Toby feel special at his inclusion in the club. 

EDINBURGH FRINGE REVIEW: Tether, Underbelly

Focusing on one man’s desire to win Gold, Tether tells the story of athlete Mark who unwillingly becomes a guide for blind marathon runner Becky.

Proud and egotistical, Mark is far from the warm heart needed to support prickly Becky and the two quickly lock horns as a power battle ensues. Over time, the two find a common ground and Mark spies opportunity in supporting Becky to fulfil his quest for medal validation. 

Writer Isley Lynn has clearly done extensive research into the sport and has dug deep into the world of Paralympic athletes and in doing so, has created an authentic and honest script. 

EDINBURGH FRINGE REVIEW: Bruce, Underbelly

Who knew a block of yellow sponge could be so engaging?!

Bruce is a simple but compelling story of love, action and adventure displaying some wicked storytelling and performed by The Last Great Haunt.

Just two performers, one puppet and a few change of eyes is all that is needed to bring this rich and colourful tale to life which whizzes by leaving the audience desperate for more.

Uplifting, laugh out loud funny and immensely warm, the success of this piece is its simplicity. Amazing vocal skills and strong physical performances make Bruce seem incredibly human this show is by far one of the most feel-good in Edinburgh.

EDINBURGH FRINGE REVIEW: Brute, Underbelly

Based on true events, Brute follows the life of Poppy; a 14 year old school girl who has just begun studying at an all-girls school.

Unable to do right from wrong, Poppy makes friends, breaks them, daren’t be too clever, too stupid, too fat nor to thin and Izzy Tennyson morphs herself into the character with terrifying ease.

The opening scenes are a strong vehicle for Tennyson’s talents as a performer and writer, but this strength isn’t maintained throughout, with the production becoming repetitive and the character becoming too Vicky Pollard to sustain the audiences early interest.