If you want to be transported back in time to gritty, dirty, and dangerous Edinburgh, this is the show for you. History gets a musical makeover in this lively hour that tells the story of William Burke and William Hare, two serial killers born in the early 1800s, roaming the streets in search of their next victim, with a song and dance in between.
Performed by a talented cast of five, the production strikes an enjoyable balance between silliness and sincerity. The humour is deliberately ridiculous, but the performers never lose sight of the darker reality beneath the comedy. The songs are silly and flamboyant, creating a great contrast to this very dark story.
A highlighted moment is the decision at the end of the show to name the known victims; it is a simple but powerful reminder that Burke and Hare should not be the people history remembers. Very funny and unexpectedly thoughtful, Burke’n’Hare is a reminder of the gruesome chapter in Edinburgh’s history and remains an entertaining and meaningful hour of Fringe theatre.
Burke’n’Hare: Let the Bodies Hit the Floor, 17:30 at LAB at PBH’s Free Fringe at CC Blooms at 5:30pm from August 8-26 (even dates) + August 30th
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/burke-n-hare-let-the-bodies-hit-the-floor
