The film Casablanca is part of every individual's memoryscape who is aged 50 and above. Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains, Conrad Veidt, Sydney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre and Dooley Wilson, they're all fixed here. The seedy, down-and-out atmosphere of the gin joint that is Rick's Café. This is an iconic piece of film history and as such perfect for lampooning, and my goodness I have never seen a poon more lamped than this?
The versatile and richly detailed theatrical set creates a wonderful atmosphere into which the audience walks and what follows is equally as good. This is quality comedy theatre where no stone is left unturned in search of a laugh or a chuckle. Puns, innuendo, parody, farcical characters and just straightforward jokes are all delivered with excellent timing and style.
The setting is an unnamed theatre about to deliver their own Casablanca play and the players are fretting about their scenes and roles.
The three performers are at the top of their game maintaining both the pace of the writing but also in playing with audiences reactions while never straying too far from the script.
Casablanca is a rare occurrence on the Fringe, a straight comedy play which has to duke it out with a million and one comedians and sketch acts. In this bear pit of an arena only the strongest survive, and this play is one of the strongest.
Remaining Dates: 25, 26 and 27
Times: 5.15pm