Created by Dorothy James & Andy Manjuck
Review by Eve Nugent
Underscored by smooth jazz, Bill is fastidiously preparing for his 44th birthday party. However, after waiting patiently, it soon becomes apparent that no guests are going to arrive. Instead of descending into despair, Bill gives free rein to his imagination and creates his own guests; an hour of great chaos prevails.
Andy Manjuck and Dorothy James, co-creators of the production, seamlessly bring Bill to life. From minute head flickers to twitching fingers, their outstanding physicality inspires the puppet, capturing deep human sensitivity and warmth. The impressive duo thus creates a character both likeable and relatable despite his simple design. Animated by Jon Riddleberger, a charming giant carrot joins the festivities and a whacky yet menacing group of balloons.
The hilarious slapstick style suddenly halts when a marionette of Bill appears on his TV set. What follows is a moving montage featuring this adorable puppet on strings, growing swiftly from a child to the man he has become. Each of his birthdays is mechanically recollected, exposing the rapid and inevitable passage of time and evoking a sense of nostalgia in each audience member.
This Fringe must-see is utterly genius in its eccentricity and originality. The standing ovation was a testament to the outstanding performance, as well as the varied range of audience reactions throughout, from aching laughs to tender sighs.
A Fringe Must-See
Bill’s 44th runs at Underbelly, Cowgate, until August 26th.
Running time – Sixty minutes without an interval
Photo credit – Tristram Kenton
Review by Even Nugent (contact@corrblimey.uk)
An undergraduate French student at the University of Edinburgh, Eve has a diverse interest in theatre and performance. Eve’s theatrical focus has recently broadened into writing and directing, for instance with her modern Othello adaptation for the University’s Shakespeare Company. Her creative attention stretches also to classical music, as she plays the flute, piano and guitar with equal fervour. She thus looks forward to watching whatever the Fringe has to offer, irrespective of genre!
