How to set out your audience engagement stall and amp the anticipation before the show has even begun? A sign up, front stage centre, requesting secrets are texted to a phone number below. A subversive shiver, some responsive texting, and a few excited nudges pass among arriving audience members. Next thing you know, the three cast members of sketch group Tarot are on stage in their now trademark white smock dresses, like children of The Wicker Man in a beauty pageant, and fourth walls are things of the past. Everyone is game. The order of sketch play will be determined by “the algorithm”. Yup, that’s us. We are the shuffle of the giant tarot cards.
On stage performers Ed Easton, Kath Hughes, Adam Drake, and off-stage collaborators Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Ben Rouse have put together a wickedly dark, silly, juvenile, and downright fun collection of sketches placing Tarot as a leader in sketch comedy’s field. There’s a generosity of spirit in their inclusive nature of the audience, whether it’s through directly addressing us as an entire entity or a few (mostly) volunteers to select the direction of the show through the prop cards. Leftfield punchlines subvert contexts viciously. There’s a contorted deliciousness as they continue to surprise and provide fresh ideas both enjoyably twisted and solidly funny. And the impression that they are enjoying this just as much as we are – most vividly shown in Adam’s conquering of a particularly impressive logistic, and Ed’s unabashed glee at the final sketch selection.
Tarot have been around for a good few years, some individual members of the group have gone on to success as solo performers. But it is fantastic to see them come back together. A solid Fringe highlight – it’s a treat to see.
Tarot: Shuffle,
Pleasance Courtyard – Pleasance Two, 21.30, Until August 25
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on#q=%22Tarot%3A%20Shuffle%22
