PALS
★★★★☆ Unstoppable
Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose (Venue 24): Wed 31st Jul – Mon 26th Aug 2024
Review by Suzanne O’Brien
Filled with banter and the odd Gaelic phrase, PALS at the Gilded Balloon Patter House is a brilliant adventure-comedy that will have you laughing one minute and holding back tears the next.
Staged by the Isle of Skye/Edinburgh-based emerging theatre company, Higgledy Piggledy Productions, PALS follows four close friends who, feeling overshadowed by their peers getting married and having babies, decide to embark on an adventure of their own.
Amy Glass, Shelley Middler, Briony Martha and Millie Rodger. Pic Higgledy Piggledy
The journey is narrated by Sadie (Millie Rodger), the practical one of the group, who encourages them to go camping and hike Ben Lomond. She’s joined by the highly animated Flo (Shelley Middler), the energetic and overly prepared Claire (Briony Martha), and the slightly less enthusiastic Taylor (Amy Glass). The chemistry among these young women is palpable, and beneath the playful banter lies a deep, genuine connection.
Writer Mirren Wilson, successfully creates and brings together these four unique characters, allowing each of them to develop in their own way.
relatable
They are lovable, quirky, yet occasionally annoying – qualities that make them all relatable. Middler and Martha, stand out for their exaggerated, over-the-top characterisations, delivering physical comedy that is both outrageous and hilarious.
Before they even reach their camping spot, chaos ensues. The trip is filled with one mishap after another, and the girls face different challenges – including the daunting task of pitching a tent.
Amy Glass, Shelley Middler and Briony Martha with Millie Rodger. Pic: Higgledy Piggledy
Amongst the chaos which is enhanced by an array of props and comical costumes (including Scooby Doo fancy dress and a very modest bathing suit), the play also touches on serious issues, such as Sadie’s struggles with her mother’s multiple sclerosis. These more intimate moments are handled with sensitivity and add another depth to the piece. However, the tonal shifts can be a bit jarring as the play quickly moves on from these serious moments just as quickly as they are introduced.
mayhem
This unapologetically Scottish show is directed with precision by Tanya MacDonald who skilfully controls the mayhem. It is full of laughter and heartfelt moments that showcase the strength of friendship. One to grab your own pals for and enjoy an hour of pure entertainment.
Running time: One hour (no interval)
Patter Hoose (Dram), 3 Chambers St, EH1 1HT (Venue 24)
Wednesday 31 July – Monday 26 August 2024
Daily (not 13, 20) at 5pm
Details and tickets at: Book here
Facebook: @Higgledy_Piggledy_Productions
Instagram: @palstheplay
Instagram: @higpig_productions
X: @higpig_
Linktree: @palstheplay
ENDS
