Award-winning theatre company Rhum and Clay returns to the Fringe with a blistering tour de force production of Dario Fo’s Mistero Buffo.
It is told through the eyes of a modern Jongleur, a travelling performer, acrobat and comedian of the Middle Ages who performed in town squares with a highly political message attacking the great and powerful.
In this impressive, visceral production, we watch five stories of the life of Jesus that all starts with the arrival of the hard-working Deliveroo driver—a modern day everyman.
Julian Spooner is simply outstanding, with impressive, inventive physicality and skilful storytelling in a masterly, high-octane performance.
He plays myriad characters, creating each one with consummate deftness—all perfectly crafted.
We are told the story of "Herod’s Massacre" with the soldiers on the rampage raping and pillaging the townsfolk and "The Wedding at Cana" where Jesus performs the miracle of turning the water into wine and we have a drunk Madonna.
"The Resurrection of Lazarus" brings some much-needed humour as the Jongleur charges entrance fees to the event and sells chairs for a perfect view as well as sick buckets and tasty sandwiches.
It would appear that Jesus has now been elevated to mega-pop-star status, but the mood changes in "The Crucifixion" scene.
There is a moving emotional portrayal of Jesus as he is hoisted onto the cross whilst the guards are arguing about gambling for his clothes and possessions.
Directed with panache by Nicholas Pitt and with an emotive soundscape by Jon Quin, this is one production that should not be missed and is very highly recommended.