Valerie continues at Summerhall until 26 August 2018.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Last Tapes Theatre Company does ‘theatre that gives a s**t’ and this piece certainly exemplifies that.
It is a personal and intimate work of inter-generational cabaret theatre created by writer, composer and performer Robin Kelly, inspired by his own grandmother’s life and exploring what is shared and what can be passed down within a family.
The title role is played by actor, guitarist and singer Cherie Moore alongside Kelly and drummer Tom Broome. Together they intersperse the narrative with powerful songs.
This is a complex and emotional piece both in the music and the narrative. Indeed someone next to me was sobbing at the end. It is also beautiful and expansive. I do confess though I found it painfully loud for its relatively small venue. I wish that theatre wanting to use music to explore complex issues could find a balance that works for all in terms of volume as well as content. This show would have been just as good a little bit quieter…
Clare Walters
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