Endearing, charming and sympathetic – not terms usually used to describe the rock star of American Literature, Edgar Allan Poe. The self-destructive, melancholic gothic/horror author of the 19th century is brought to life in this one man show by David Crawford, bringing his talent across the pond from the United States.
The story is from Poe’s own lips, on what we assume is the night of his death; three shadows follow him, and whether they are friends, enemies, or figments of his imagination he is yet to discover.
Crawford brings humanity to a troubled and complex man as he tells his life story, cleverly incorporating some of his most well-known and admired literary works including ‘Alone’, ‘The Cask of Amontillado’ and ‘The Raven’.
Crawford handles the character sensitively, and the audience expertly, engaging them with the deepest fears and saddest tragedies of Poe’s life with seamless delivery and uncanny characterisation. His performance brings life to a man shrouded in death, and moments of laughter to Poe’s final hours.
It is a sad tale, but one that deserves telling and with Crawford’s expert hand, this is storytelling at its very best.
Show times: 5-14 August, 9.20pm; 16-28 (not 22), 5.10pm. £8 (£6). 2 for 1 on 8 & 9 Aug.