Mike Dorey
Edmund Morris’ second original piece of theatre was always going to have high expectations. Following the success of his previous show You’re Dead, Mate, that I had the privilege of reviewing at the Nutshell in Winchester several years ago; it was clear that Edmund was one to watch. I reviewed that show at the time as four stars, my colleague then later reviewed the same, more polished show, as five stars; and as the majority of readers will realise by the title of this review, Morris’ and his team have not only stepped up a notch since I last saw them, but maintained it with ease.
His second outing in The Grim is nothing short of hilarious, scary, nostalgic and existential; mixed together into a masterful and concise one hour cocktail of fringe theatre at it’s best. The theme of death being the only real through-line between that and in previous show giving a totally new and engaging take on the themes and topics Morris seems to relish writing about.
Edmund plays Shaun, potentially one of the most stereotypical cockney Londoners I’ve ever seen in live theatre. His hilarity is expertly complimented by Louis Davison as Robert who plays an superstitious Irish man, obsessed with folklore and easy spooked into thinking his superstitions are real. The pair work at an undertakers in the 1960’s, bringing forth a smörgåsbord of gallows humour, much enjoyed by the audience. After some time they are joined by Harry Carter as Jack. His unexpected and unwelcome arrival force the pair to negotiate themselves out of a high stakes life or death scenario with the thought to be deceased serial killer.
Any further explanation of Carter’s character would give away far to much of the narrative so you’ll have to go with me when I say his stage presence alone completely changes the tone of the show, from a light hearted dark comedy to an out and out thriller. The theme of death playing an essential role both comedically and unnervingly.
This trio are exceptionally talented actors, each bringing something totally unique to the show. Whilst Edmund provides hilarious comic relief; Harry brings an intense ominous aura and Louis perfectly bridges the gap between the two, allowing the shifts in tone to appear smooth and complimentary to one another.
Whilst Edmund’s script and storytelling deserves much praise, it would be amiss to not also heavily praise the show’s director, Ben Woodhall for sewing this wild concept together with ease and precision. With three big and powerful personalities on stage it takes great talent to wrangle them all and get the best out of each person so they can shine in their own right but also compliment and contrast against one another’s characters. This has been achieved
This show is technically adept, visually and narratively engaging, creating a fast-paced thrill ride for audiences. This new found company Drollery, is one to keep an eye on.
See The Grim at 1:15pm every day until 25th August (not Monday 12th) at Underbelly, Bristo Square, Dexter. Tickets available through the EdFringe Box Office.
Jake Mace
