ED2014 4/5 Reviews ED2014 Theatre Reviews

Show Off (Figs in Wigs / Escalator East To Edinburgh)

By Dave Fargnoli | Published on Wednesday 20 August 2014

Though they’re dressed in 70’s style day-glow jumpsuits, Figs in Wigs’ ironic, satirical show couldn’t be more contemporary. It’s a daft deconstruction of social media, narcissism and mediocrity, posing as a clunky variety act. Though it takes a while to warm to the sandpaper-dry humour, the company boast solid performance skills. In an hour, they work in wince-inducing puns, juggling, hoola-hooping and a tightly choreographed dance with smart-phones in hand. There’s no denying that this will divide audiences, specifically into those who leave, and those who get the joke. However, as baffled chuckles give way to steady laughter, it becomes clear this sharp company have pulled off something very special – simultaneously sharp, sarcastic, stupid and brilliant.

Pleasance Courtyard, until 25 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Dave Fargnoli]