BRIGHTON FRINGE: Happily Never After -The Old Market

By: The Maydays
Reviewer: Lela Tredwell

This extraordinary improvised performance has to be seen to be believed.

The Maydays co-create a unique piece of musical theatre in the style of gothic horror with dark humour and grim glee. They do this exceptional feat in front of the audience’s very eyes based on a viewer’s volunteered suggestion of a grandparent’s profession.

‘Jeweller’ is the occupation that inspires this particular night’s show and the exceptionally talented cast intuitively set to play, creating a rich narrative, complete with sensational improvised musical numbers. With what is a soundtrack to die for – and, as it goes, to – the genius musician, Joe Samuel, adds the perfect atmosphere to this Tim Burton meets Edgar Allen Poe meets The Brother’s Grimm genre performance.

Everything is created on the spot as the whole of the cast take equal responsibility for weaving the tale. Their stage presence is nothing short of enchanting as they boldly embody their characters, while using the different levels of their stage to full advantage.

Rhiannon Vivian expertly brings to life a cursed jewel with a perfect mix of magic and menace. The child that befriends the sentient gem is beautifully realised by Liz Peters. And together the pair create multiple stunning songs.

Superbly comic scenes are masterly concocted between the other expert members of the cast: Katy Schutte, Jenny Rowe and Jon Nguyen. Nguyen’s warlock descendant is highly enjoyable to watch as is the song he starts at the beginning of the second half concerning a gold rush. Schutte and Rowe demonstrate sublime comic timing and fabulous characterisation. Schutte’s old jeweller is an absolute delight to behold and wields a wicked sense of humour. While Rowe has the audience roaring with laughter as the child’s hapless father, and also a number of possessed family portraits.

This show is a non-stop joy from moment to moment. Emotionally touching, incredibly funny, rich in narrative twists and charm. If you want outstanding performances, sublime musical moments, exhilarating collaborations and plenty of laughs, you need look no further than The Maydays. They bring their bright sparkling light to even the darkest of genres.

The Maydays perform again in the Brighton Fringe on the 20th of May in their improvised The Fringe Show.

Reviewed on 8th May