Thom Tuck delivers a masterclass in storytelling in this fabulously riveting biographical yarn. Structured by way of an MLM business presentation to get rich, Tuck beams amoral charisma as General Sir Gregor McGregor. It’s a real life lived over 200 years ago, and yet resonates like a platoon of xylophones alongside today’s MAGA billionaire titans of industry. What results is the true tale of a ruthless con artist, graduating from bent truths rapidly escalating into the exploitation of historical zeitgeist through war and colonialism. All delivered with the irrepressible zeal that makes Tuck such an utter delight, showcasing his versatility and magic, keeping every bit of the energy in the room and all eyes on him.
The show is semi-immersive, safe for those scared of the terrifying word ‘interactive’ yet benefiting from the lack of a fourth wall. He slips into the seminar-leader character straddling eras like a well-tailored coat – McGregor is entitled charm personified.
Tuck’s physicality is mesmerising. And his dialogue engaging and clever, utilising repetition, humour, and a visceral drive to win, to build up this collage of a reprobate to a point of grotesque horror. It’s a well carved script, carefully constructed, drawing us in as we enjoy the eccentricities and “Rules” for success McGregor delivers, finding ourselves in deeper murkier ethical waters, as buffoonery slips and bottom line ruthlessness flays in empty justifications.
It’s a fascinating life- and times-story well delivered that stays with you well beyond the hour, buffing up the tarnish on contemporary shiny echoes with aplomb.
Roxyboxy at Assembly Roxy, 20.30 5-30 August (except Wednesdays)
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-wolf-of-poyais
