Helen Stewart (Costume Designer); Zoë Mackinnon (Stage Management); Claire Gilbert (Producer); Reg Madison (Photography)
A fast-paced farcical musical romp through the 1892 trial and tribulations of Lizzie Borden, infamous alleged murderer, this is a fun watch. After the death of her father and stepmother by a hatchet, the whole of America was fascinated with the murders, but Borden, although arrested for the crime, was acquitted and lived the rest of her life under suspicion. The murders remain unsolved to this day.
Many different explorations of her story have been made in the time since then, and this musical manages to combine a version of that story with sharp, humorous writing from Sasha Wilson (who also plays Borden) and bluegrass music. The actor musicians are all extremely talented, morphing between direct address and different characters swiftly with ease. Great use of the space is made by the performers as they use not just the stage but the audience space, keeping us on our toes. The songs are witty – the ongoing discussion about the difference between an axe (commonly described as the murder weapon) and a hatchet (believed to be the actual murder weapon) is hilarious.
While there are lots of laughs in this show, one of the key reasons this has stuck in the memory of the world has been that the alleged murder was a woman, and not only that but from a wealthy family. Writer Wilson is fascinated by how differently women can be treated in the media and she gives us a great deal to think about in looking at Borden’s case.
Show Time: 17-25 Aug @ 15:50
Running time: 1hr 10mins
Ticket Prices: £13.25-£16.00
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/bury-the-hatchet
Warnings: This show contains strong language, scenes of violence and distressing or potentially triggering themes. Accessibility and enhanced performances: Main queue inside Dome at left of building. 5 steps up to the space or Level access to left of venue — ask staff for assistance. Wheelchair access type: Level Access. Stairs: 2-5. Number of stairs is provided as guidance and is not in addition to any wheelchair access type (lift/ramp etc) stated above. Wheelchair Access. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Audio Enhancement System. May not apply to all performances.
Age suitability: 12+ (Guideline). Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 2 years. Age restrictions: Under 16s accompanied by an adult may be on the premises until 00:00. 16–17-year-olds until 01:00 in Potterrow Plaza and 03:00 in Pleasance Dome. Under 18s may not approach a bar. Licensing restrictions may be subject to change.