This show begins with a few actors on stage, sitting on a sofa, drinking beer. They’re watching an American news channel showing clips of I.C.E. protestors and Donald Trump’s election campaign.
The musical itself is centred around the songs of the iconic band Greenday and three young boys trying to find their way in the world.
This large group of young actors use carefully rehearsed chorography and synchronised movements to immerse the audience into each storyline, which there are three of. A boy experiencing drug issues and losing his first love, a military veteran, and a teen dad.
Their body movements are extremely effective at making up for the pretty barren set, such as a bus scene where the actors themselves use simply a steering wheel and their bodies to make up the vehicle.
The amount of costume changes in this show is impressive, from changing from red and black teenage-like outfits to full military uniform, you can tell all the actors are working hard behind the scenes. This play is an hour and fifty minutes long, which is longer than the average fringe show. However, it goes fast. This show is full of emotions, love, and talent which will make you forget the passing time completely.
While this performance at some points is slightly confusing due to the sheer number of different storylines and the occasional false ending, the talent of these young people is undeniable. With their incredible voices and stage presence, these predominantly Scottish actors truly encapsulate multiple parts of American culture.
American Idiot, 20:00, Alba Theatre at Braw venues @ Hill Street, 7 – 30
