Bucksomly Betrothals, presented by Paradok, one of Edinburgh’s most beloved theatre companies, has made its successful debut at this year’s Fringe Festival.
This one-hour play, written and directed by Tai Remus Elliot, Ava Vaccari, and Anna Yarwood, is a love story, but also much more. The piece focuses on a group of people who have all suffered from the bitterness of seeking out a relationship — whether it be due to a lack of skills, or an excess of confidence. With the help of Geraldine Bucksomly, they are relying on a matchmaking agency to change the fates of their love lives.
The script is a wonderful literary piece in and of itself. I was especially drawn to the character work — no matter if it is a major role that shows faces in all scenes, or a two-liner subordinate, the writers have clearly injected souls into all of them. Every face in the play has various dimensions, creating a relatable and intimate performance, as you see them on stage, and immediately think of someone you know in real life.
Good characters and skillful actors go hand in hand. Every single actor in this production is brilliant and enthusiastic. The five of them show a consistent rhythm, which could only be developed through practice and countless rehearsals. Due to the constraints of having a cast of only five, four actors play multiple parts. Ava Godfrey, Jude Rodgers, and Tai Remus Elliot all play both male and female presenting characters, rising to the challenge seamlessly.
Anna Yarwood, cast as Alan, shows a rich understanding of her character. Yarwood’s portrayal of the character is subtle yet powerful. The audience laughs at Alan’s clumsy moves and awkward speeches and urges him on to find love in equal measure. Stephen, played by Charlie Berry, also deserves a mention. Berry’s energy on stage is impeccable. Donning a bright orange blazer, Stephen is certainly the most eye-catching character on stage, drawing everyone’s attention with his high-spirited lines and expressive movements.
Overall, this production is a delight to see at this year’s Fringe, and it certainly reminds us of the spirit of Fringe itself: you might be a bit odd, but you will be someone’s cup of tea.
Bucksomly Betrothals is running until 11 August at Studio, theSpaceTriplex. Buy tickets here.
Image provided The Student by Theatre Paradok as press material.
