We in the UK generally do not take the
Eurovision Contest very seriously, or so I thought. I know those
continentals do, especially from my experience the Greeks.
However, maybe I’m wrong judging from the
hoards of Fringe punters who are literally flocking into the massive
Pleasance Grand as this very tongue in cheek pastiche of The
Eurovision contest is played out.
The fun and games start in the queue as
badges for the 10 competing countries are handed out and national
flags and clackers are on sale. The frivolity is up and running.
Once in side the cavernous venue the
audience are being whipped into a frenzy by production staff bubbles
are blowing, flags waving clackers clacking, and then the lights
dim, a video message from the King of Eurovision himself, Terry
Wogan and we’re off, Sarajevo in Bosnia-Herzegovina is the setting
and our hosts Sergei played by Glynn Nicholas and Boika, Mel
Geidroyc introduce the ten countries, namely Italy, Estonia,
Iceland, UK, Russia, Hungary, Eire, Greece, Germany and Sweden who
are battling it out to win this ‘prestigious contest’.
The competitors take to the stage country
by country, all performed by the talented and versatile company,
with diverse styles costumes and music most of which is relevant to
the country they are depicting.
After the last entry has performed there is
a live text vote where the crowd actually get to decide the winner.
Like the real thing, there is a half time entertainment of
song and dance led by Boika followed by each country giving their
votes which are greeted by flag waving as each score registers on
the giant score board.
The eventual winner get the trophy and of
course sing their song again, before the curtain comes down on an
excellent night.
With all the serious stuff that finds
it’s way into the Fringe I must congratulate the team behind this
show for staging this fun packed tongue in cheek, yet totally
professional and delightfully staged show, that has had people
attending in droves.
I am only allowed to give a maximum of 5
stars per show, ‘cause I’d be sorely tempted to give it 6 if I
could.
*****
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