Review by Kelly Lacey
Fringe Performance Review: The Interval
Venue: theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall – Haldane Theatre
Date/Time: August 6-10, 12-17, 16:20
Duration: 50 minutes
Suitability: 16+ (Guideline)
Country: United Kingdom – England
Group: Rhona Ashwood
Warnings and Additional Info: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing
Rhona Ashwood’s “The Interval” is a dark comedy-drama that will stay with you long after the lights dim. Performed at the intimate Haldane Theatre within theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, this one-person show delves deep into the human experience with a raw, unfiltered honesty that is both heart-wrenching and darkly humorous.
From the moment Rhona stepped onto the stage, I was captivated by her presence. Her portrayal of a character struggling to keep it together while navigating the pressures and expectations of life was both poignant and relatable. The narrative, laced with dry wit and biting humour, offered a candid glimpse into the protagonist’s internal battle to “hold it in” and maintain her reputation.
The performance was profoundly moving, touching on heavy themes such as assault and suicide. These themes, while present, were not the central focus, allowing the story to explore the broader spectrum of human emotion and resilience. Rhona masterfully balanced these intense moments with lighter, comedic elements, creating a nuanced and layered performance that resonated deeply with the audience.
What truly set “The Interval” apart was Rhona Ashwood’s exceptional talent. Her ability to convey a wide range of emotions with authenticity and depth made this performance the standout of the Fringe for me. She seamlessly transitioned between moments of vulnerability and strength, drawing the audience into her world and making us feel every heartbeat of her character’s journey.
Throughout the performance, I couldn’t shake the uncanny feeling that Rhona looks remarkably like a young Meryl Streep. This totally irrelevant fact kept popping into my mind, adding an unexpected layer of fascination to an already mesmerizing show.
Despite the heavy themes, the show managed to be uplifting and thought-provoking, a testament to Rhona’s skill as both a writer and performer. The 50 minutes flew by, leaving me in awe of the emotional journey I had just experienced. It was, without a doubt, my favourite performance of the past few years at the Fringe.
One aspect I felt was missing was the opportunity to show our appreciation for Rhona at the end. Given the depth and brilliance of her performance, it would have been fitting for her to come out and receive the applause she so richly deserved. Her portrayal was nothing short of brilliant and unforgettable.
In conclusion, “The Interval” is a must-see for those who appreciate dark comedy and drama that delves into the complexities of human experience. Rhona Ashwood has created a truly remarkable piece that will leave you reflecting on its themes long after the curtain falls. This performance is a shining example of the power of theatre to move and inspire, making it a real highlight of my Fringe.
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/interval
Kelly Lacey & Love Books Tours 