Created by Daniel Serridge
Review by Eve Nugent
Scottish Storytelling Centre: Tickets
“It is a story for those who have loved and lost,” claims storyteller Daniel Serridge as he takes to the stage in Netherbow Theatre at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. This sequestered venue on the Royal Mile is a Fringe hidden gem specialising in narrative stories of Scotland and its people and showcasing international stories and performers. The performance of Orpheus/Orfeo, also including harpist Neil Wood and singer Heather Cartwright, cleverly retells the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, entangled with the Shetland ballad of King Orfeo. The following hour explores grief, suffering, devotion and desire, guiding the audience to “never look back”.
The tale begins with the grand wedding of Orpheus and Eurydice, underscored by a gentle harp melody. Serridge’s warm projection is perfectly paced, immediately capturing the audience; his full-bodied, passionate storytelling evokes vividly colourful imagery, and he crafts each sentence with attention and care. Cartwright’s beautiful musical interludes are scattered throughout the narrative, with original lyrics offering structural and atmospheric benefits. The Scottish myth of King Orfeo and his wife, Lisa Bell, is later introduced, injecting the story’s ending with great hope and promise.
This imaginative blend of Greek myth and Shetland folktale is both well-rehearsed and unique, making it a definite Fringe must-see. The hour passes incredibly quickly, thrust forward by excellent music that heightens emotions in all the right places.
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!
