'The Edinburgh show which may be the best thing you'll see at this year's Fringe'
'Over The Top' might just be the best thing you see at the Edinburgh Fringe this year.
Fringe newcomer Jessica Durand has brought her wacky solo show 'Over The Top' to Edinburgh– a fan fiction account based around one of the deadliest conflicts in history, The First World War… and also Downton Abbey.
If you had told me last year I'd be going to see a Downton Abbey/First World War self-insert fan fiction about a bisexual woman who just wants Ms Trunchbull (yes, the one you're thinking of) to throw her about a bit, I'd have laughed at you.
But how ignorant and closed minded I would have been, this show was fantastic.
As the show's title suggests, Durand's over the top style and humour promises laughs regardless of her audiences age, politics or gender. Her careless demeanour creates an environment where everyone can't help but let their guard down and enjoy what's going on in front of them.
The concept of the show is a bit weird but that's exactly what Fringe is all about. The show's effortless switching between the Great War and present day (and in some scenes combining both) was captivating and had a busy crowd laughing every step of the way.
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Jessica Durand was remarkably funny. Her well written, silly and unserious character, combined with jokes timed to perfection and a fantastic soundtrack set the tone for a show which had incredible pacing and humour.
At times inviting the audience on stage to participate as written in cast members, Durand acts out pieces of her own writing with such conviction that her audience truly do feel part of her story.
Per the words of the show's director Rowan Ellis, the show is 'a love letter to fandom and unhinged special interests' and I'd struggle to describe it in a better way.
Seriously worthwhile and while at times it may be confusing, it will at all times be hilarious.
My final review: ★★★★★
Jessica Durand's 'Over The Top' is running all month in Underbelly Cowgate's 'Dehli Belly' venue until the 24th of August with tickets available via the Fringe Website:
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/jessica-durand-over-the-top
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