Venue (): Summerhall
Category:
Times: 9:05pm
Dates: Jul 31, Aug 1-24, not 17
Stars: ****
Reviewed by Shimrit Elisar
Lady Go Go Goch is billed in the Fringe programme as cabaret, and while the blurb discusses the theme more in depth, neither are enough to give a true idea of what to expect. From the atmospheric, surreal opening number it stands out as a unique performance – a powerful, entertaining and thought-provoking look at Welsh stereotypes and cultural identity presented in cabaret style by two extremely talented performers, Frankie Fox and musician Ricardo Rocha.
The show combines music, abstract voice work and theatre and seems to channel the traditional art of fireside storytelling to create a truly beautiful exploration. It apparently follows the lineage and history of one woman, although there is no overt narrative throughout. Rather, the show is made of short vignettes that follow one another, (hence one of the cabaret elemenst) each presenting a different character, from folk heroes to divas, rugby players and even a dragon.
Fox is a strong performer and is a real pleasure to watch. She uses her spine-tingly beautiful voice to deliver traditional, original and contemporary songs, as well as monologues that are as mesmerising in Welsh (which I don’t speak or understand) as they are in English. Her range is enviable, as she quickly turns into young, old, timid, wild, etc. to weave a whole world made out of different characters.
Rocha, armed with a loop station, an array of both traditional and electric instruments, his voice and a seemingly endless supply of talent, creates a trance-like background for the performance, as well as providing the occasional amusing interaction.
This is a show that would be worth seeing for the quality of performance and musicianship alone even if you had no interest in the theme at all. The songs are so beautiful, you’ll be sorry you can’t take them home with you and Fox and Rocha are excellent throughout. Top that with such a rich, moving and ever so topical theme and you’ll understand why this is definitely one worth watching.
