Anna Morris: Dolly Mixture

Review by Bernard O'Leary | 17 Aug 2012

With an intro narrated by a creepy doll's head, the tone is nicely set for something that's going to be innovative and a little weird. Morris's characters are a diverse bunch - a nervous standup comedian, an icey Chelsea bride delivering a withering speech, a holiday rep with a dark secret, a vicious fashion critic, and an anti-marriage activist - but they're linked by one thing. All of them are addressing the audience in some way.

As the show progresses, it becomes clear what a smart idea this. It's more than just audience interaction, Morris redefines the whole performance space so that we're sitting in the imaginary world of her sketches. Audience members become intrinisic parts of each sketch, being assigned new names, taking part in safety drills and delivering speeches, while Morris wanders around the room, delivering the show from every corner.

This conceit works so well, scaring and engaging the audience in equal measures. Backed up with terrific writing and an exceptional performance from Morris, it adds up to a fantastic little Free Fringe treat, fizzing with energy and bright ideas. Not to be missed.

Anna Morris: Dolly Mixture, Voodoo Rooms, until August 25, 15:55, Free http://www.edfringe.com/whats-on/comedy/dolly-mixture