Combining singing, dancing, cowboy boots and hats, and a 13-strong cast, this is an unusual exploration of the struggles of working-class identity and the impact this can have on the individual. The use of country music and western-ish dances is cleverly done, as country often explores the sadness of life and gritty hardships as a working man or woman. Playing in the background is a large screen that shows snippets of scenes, either from Westerns or from the on-stage story. The styling of this in iconic Western lettering and classic scenes, makes it look familiar even if the information is new.
No-one has a real name in this production: instead, they are named by their role in life, eg, The Man, and The Woman. Each member of the cast embodies their characters to the full, with some particularly impressive dancing from The Boy and The Man. The live singing is also well executed, although at times it clashes with the voiceover, and we lost some of the meaning in either. The songs are familiar, both recent and new, but always meaningful to the on-stage action. It is good to see a cast that ranges in age, shape and size, rather than a one-size performer fits all, and this adds to the reality of it all.
The overall message of the show is bleak and, while it is exploring vital themes, it is so harsh and so visceral at times – the violence, the drinking and drugs, the loss of self – that it takes away hope. The final message of this being due to the system an individual goes through, rather than individuals being born this way, makes sense, but it might have been more powerful to find an element of hope to leave the audience with. It is, however, a striking piece of performance that has a timely message.
Show Time: 15-17 Aug @ 12:30
Zoo Southside
Ticket Prices: 15 Aug £16 (£14); 16 Aug (Signed Performance) £17 (£15); 17 Aug £17 (£15)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/common-is-as-common-does-a-memoir
Accessible entry: The level access is via the rear or the building. There are 16 steps from the street level to the seating. Wheelchair access type: Building Lift. Stairs: 11- 20. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Age: 14+ (Guideline); Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing. Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 2 years.