Issy Cory
Loneliness is an epidemic. But fear not, this troupe of camp clowns at Cabaret Fragilé are here to change that. Step into the land of frills and frou-frou, with a side of smudged lipstick…
Four clowns endeavour to connect with their audience through spoken-word lip syncs, live song, tap dancing, puppetry, and so much more. Their aim? To make us feel less lonely. As one performance plays into another, their painted faces become besmeared. Cheering the world up is no mean feat.
The first thing you notice is the dazzle of our performers’ costumes. They are bright, complete with typical clown faces and a smile that would fool anyone. They are mesmerising, but undeniably spooky. It sets the tone perfectly for what is about to come.
Each act is extremely well personified, and they each take up their own weird and wacky place on stage. Of course, they are all enormously talented, showing off their many skills in an attempt to improve our wellness.
Crying Shame has a poignant concept, despite its flashy appearance. As the performers become further more distressed, we are made forcefully aware of how powerful loneliness can be. No amount of pink taffeta can combat the upsetting notion that you just feel “stuck”.
Although there are moments of pure hilarity, particularly when the sock puppet is brought out, the moments of tragedy are utterly compelling. As our effervescent compère is struck by their own reflection, furiously trying to recreate a previous dance, we cannot help but feel paralysed by their pain.
What could have easily been a cliché portrayal of the dilemmas surrounding body image, is in reality a ruthless laborious trial. We are told that attractiveness is social currency in queer circles, and we feel the weight of this monumentally throughout this section.
On the whole, the physical movement in this production is of the highest standard. Funky pop choreography is juxtaposed by straining, struggling clowns wading through the thickets of abandonment. The visual effect is startling.
Crying Shame is unequivocally bold, in-yer-face theatre, with an affecting commentary. It is so outlandishly brilliant.
Recommended Drink: A cocktail pitcher for one.
You can catch Crying Shame at Pleasance Dome – King Dome from Aug 22-25 at 21:30. Tickets are available through the EdFringe Box Office.
Jake Mace
Phoebe Bakker
