Weird Fringe is not disappointed by this (****) musical production.
I was very much looking forward to seeing 35mm at The Bedlam Theatre. I was introduced to the musical through the National Theatre of Scotland’s Five Minute Theatre in 2012 when ‘The Ballad of Sara Berry’ was performed by Random Act Theatre Company. I fell in love with the song then and was hoping not to be disappointed.
The set for this show was simple and understated, as was the direction and choreography, which suited the piece perfectly. The songs, written by Ryan Scott Oliver, are complex in their narrative and musicality, so the last thing they need is any distractions getting in their way. The simple direction allowed the performers to carry the piece with their own skills.
The cast were an absolute joy to watch, especially the two female performers who belted out the songs effortlessly. This musical felt like the Olympics of musical theatre singing in that the actors’ voices were pushed to their limits. The young cast coped with the demanding songs with ease with impressive solos and beautiful harmonies.
As the title of the musical suggests, this is an exhibition of songs, so there is no storyline to follow. The songs were inspired by photographs taken by Matthew Murphy, which are projected as each song is performed. The live music is, at times, lacking the volume and energy to really drive the songs. However, the performers have the voices and the acting ability to drive the momentum of the music.
If you want a show that showcases the cream of musical theatre talent and you enjoy the buzz of a theatre filled with west-end harmonies then you will not be disappointed.
https://www.edfringe.com/whats-on/musicals-and-operas/35mm-a-musical-exhibition
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