Gig theatre is a growing trend in performance: it is part music, part gig, part theatre, part storytelling and A Giant on the Bridge combines these elements with heart. There is a fairytale at the centre of this piece, an allegory for the fictional story being told, based on real life experiences of prisoners and their families. It is explained to us that when one person goes to prison, the whole family experiences it. There is impact on all, no matter what the situation.
The central prisoner in this tale uses rap to release his feelings, to explain his situation. This takes a little time to settle in, but the skill grows as the story develops. We hear from the sister of the prisoner, someone who would have been a singer had life been different, and her niece who she is caring for (the young daughter of the prisoner and writer of the fairytale). With additional stories from a prison visitor and a musician who teaches the craft of song writing in prison, we hear from the whole community that is involved. Hearing from the different voices is important and helps to make clear the holistic wants and needs around any prison conviction, and the important of looking at the system differently.
The music, devised by many including those within the prison system, is evocative and takes us on the journey of the story being told. Tying this in with the fairytale is an interesting conceit and works within this piece. The whole team is strong. The only quibble is that the final song does not feel like an ‘end’ song. This may be deliberate, but with the journey that the audience is taken on, it does not quite seem to fit, but perhaps that is the point, that once a prisoner is an ex-prisoner, they too do not know where they quite fit in. This is a piece that will make you think and challenge your perceptions.
Show Time: 17-18 Aug @ 10::40
Assembly Roxy
Ticket Prices: £14.50 (£13.50)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/giant-on-the-bridge
Accessible entry: Ramp access from ground level. If not using the ramp there is 2 steps into the venue. Wheelchair access type: Temporary Ramp. Stairs: 2 – 5. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Captioning. Audio Described. Age: 14+ (Guideline), Strong language/swearing; Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 18 months.