From the moment you enter the theatre, this production announces itself as something different. The audience sits facing one another, with the performance space positioned between them. An inventive choice that immediately creates an intimacy between the audience and the performer. We follow Fraser Patterson, growing up in the small town of Ellon, from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. Rather than relying on elaborate scenery or a large cast, the production places its entire weight on the performer, using narration and audio to move seamlessly between stages of Fraser’s life.
Sands Stirling’s solo performance is exceptional. There is an authenticity to the delivery that makes the story feel lived rather than simply performed. His passion fills the room, drawing the audience completely into Fraser’s world as the story navigates its the harsh life and mental battles being fought every day of Fraser’s mind. I find myself genuinely moved after watching the performance, which gives credit to both the words of playwright Nathan Scott Dunn and the performer’s ability to make such a personal story feel universal.
This is, for me, what authentic Fringe theatre looks like: inventive and driven by raw talent rather than spectacle. It is a production that understands the power of a simple idea executed exceptionally well ending with a standing ovation from the audience. This is one of the strongest productions I see at the Fringe this year, and it sets an extremely high bar for everything that follows. A great show, a great story and, quite simply, great theatre.
MANikin: Saltire Sky Theatre, 18:00 at Hibernian Football Supporters Club at 6pm from August 1-30
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/manikin-saltire-sky-theatre-tickets-1987687169832
