Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre – Edinburgh Fringe 2025 Day 6 REVIEWS (She's Behind You, Miles, Consumed, Rift, and more)

Host: MickeyJoTheatre
Release Date: August 14, 2025
Episode Title: Edinburgh Fringe 2025 Day 6 REVIEWS (She's Behind You, Miles, Consumed, Rift, and more)

In this engaging episode, Mickey-Jo takes listeners through his sixth day of reviews at the prestigious Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025. Covering a diverse array of performances from various genres and venues, Mickey-Jo offers insightful critiques, highlighting both the strengths and shortcomings of each show. Below is a detailed summary of his reviews, complete with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

1. Consumed by Carys Kelly – Traverse Theatre

Overview: Mickey-Jo begins his day at the Traverse Theatre, reviewing Consumed, an award-winning play by Carys Kelly. The narrative centers around a family reunion celebrating the 90th birthday of a formidable great-grandmother.

Key Points:

• Generational Tensions: The play intricately portrays family dynamics across four generations, unearthing sources of tension and stress within a concise 70-minute runtime.
• All-Female Cast: Featuring Julia Dearden as the outspoken great-grandmother, alongside her daughter and granddaughter, the performance delves into themes of generational trauma and cultural identity.
• Realistic Portrayal: Mickey-Jo appreciates the authentic depiction of generational conflicts and cultural identities, stating, “This is probably one of the best depictions of that idea that I've seen on stage” (02:30).

Notable Quote:

“In 70 minutes it manages to unearth every conceivable source of family tension and anx and stress… it’s a hilarious and shocking riot.” – Mickey-Jo (02:15)

2. Don't Tell Dad About Diana – Underbelly Cowgate

Overview: Next, Mickey-Jo reviews Don't Tell Dad About Diana, a comedy play set in 1990s Ireland, focusing on the lives of two young men obsessed with Princess Diana.

Key Points:

• Character Dynamics: The story balances the perspectives of Connor, an aspiring performer, and Hannah, a seamstress and Gen Z activist, portraying their deep admiration for Diana.
• Humor and Heart: Described as “hilarious even in its moments of tragedy,” the play effectively combines comedy with heartfelt moments celebrating friendship and artistic ambition.
• Cultural Impact: Mickey-Jo commends the show for portraying Diana’s legacy through the characters’ actions, enhancing the audience’s appreciation for her impact.

Notable Quote:

“It becomes a real love letter to their friendship and the charming mixture of the emboldened confidence of young, determined artistry with an insufficient creative outlet and abject naivety.” – Mickey-Jo (04:10)

3. Down to Chance – Pleasants Courtyard

Overview: At the Pleasants Courtyard, Mickey-Jo explores Down to Chance, a dramatic portrayal of Jeannie Chance, a reporter navigating a catastrophic earthquake in Anchorage, Alaska, in 1964.

Key Points:

• Inspirational Storytelling: The play mirrors the cinematic quality of Come From Away, focusing on human resilience and community spirit amidst disaster.
• Performance and Design: Despite minor narrative challenges, Mickey-Jo praises the engaging performances and unique staging, noting its potential as a film-worthy production.
• Dynamic Interactions: The show features a tight cast using minimal props to differentiate characters, creating an intimate and immersive experience.

Notable Quote:

“But by the time we get there, it's really engaging and it's also very unique. There is nothing else quite like this at this year's Fringe.” – Mickey-Jo (06:10)

4. Rift – Traverse Theatre

Overview: Rift is an American-set play that delves into the strained relationship between two half-brothers over a span of 27 years, one of whom is incarcerated.

Key Points:

• Complex Themes: The play addresses heavy topics such as cyclical abuse and white supremacy, attempting to explore deep-seated familial and societal issues.
• Critique on Execution: Mickey-Jo expresses disappointment with the lack of character depth and nuanced dialogue, stating, “Their dialogue too often feels like the voice of the playwright” (07:45).
• Engagement Issues: While the concept is intriguing, the execution falls short in making the characters believable and the interactions engaging.

Notable Quote:

“The whole thing falls down when it fails to be believable and, by extension, engaging.” – Mickey-Jo (08:30)

5. Miles – Summerhall

Overview: Miles is a musically enriched homage to the legendary jazz musician Miles Davis, featuring a compelling performance by Benjamin Akintayosi.

Key Points:

• Stellar Performance: Benjamin Akintayosi delivers a mesmerizing portrayal of Miles Davis, earning high praise as one of the best performances at the Fringe.
• Innovative Concept: The show intertwines conversations between Miles’ ghost and a contemporary jazz trumpet player, Jay, to explore Davis’s legacy and musical influence.
• Technical Excellence: Exceptional set design, sound, and projections contribute to an immersive experience, with potential for a full-scale production.

Notable Quote:

“Benjamin Akintayosi’s changes in vocal affectation and physicality… were astonishing. One of the best performances I've ever seen in an Edinburgh Fringe.” – Mickey-Jo (09:40)

6. How to Win Against History – Big Purple Cow

Overview: This new musical presents the life of Henry Cyril Paget, a queer historical icon, through a vibrant and whimsical lens at the Big Purple Cow venue.

Key Points:

• Visual Splendor: The show boasts gorgeous costumes and striking visual elements, enhancing the storytelling of Henry’s colorful yet somber life.
• Pacing and Momentum Issues: Mickey-Jo critiques the lack of pacing and reliance on pre-recorded tracks, which hinder the show’s overall momentum and engagement.
• Potential and Charm: Despite its flaws, the whimsical presentation and charming performances indicate a promising foundation that could be refined further.

Notable Quote:

“Gorgeous glitzy costumes and a handful of really funny jokes, although perhaps too few… there is so much to like about the whimsical presentation.” – Mickey-Jo (10:30)

7. She's Behind You – Traverse Theatre

Overview: Concluding his day, Mickey-Jo reviews She's Behind You at the Traverse Theatre, describing it as an exceptional piece deserving of high praise.

Key Points:

• Emotional Depth: The show opens with poignant moments, showcasing Johnny McKnight’s performance as a pantomime dame delving into cultural and social commentary.
• Cultural Exploration: Through Johnny’s narrative, the play explores the history and significance of the pantomime dame, intertwining themes of acceptance, community, and representation.
• Heartfelt Tribute: Mickey-Jo highlights the show as a moving tribute to LGBTQ+ representation in theatre, commending its smart humor and emotional resonance.

Notable Quote:

“This show is so smart, so funny and it captured my entire heart.” – Mickey-Jo (11:10)

Final Thoughts

Throughout the episode, Mickey-Jo provides a balanced perspective, celebrating standout performances like Consumed and Miles while offering constructive criticism for shows like Rift and How to Win Against History. His deep appreciation for authentic storytelling and character development shines through, making this episode a valuable resource for theatre enthusiasts seeking comprehensive and honest Fringe reviews.

Notable Overall Quote:

“The weather may be chilly, but my heart is thoroughly warmed.” – Mickey-Jo (10:50)

Conclusion: MickeyJoTheatre's latest episode offers a thorough and passionate exploration of Day 6 at the Edinburgh Fringe 2025, providing listeners with rich insights into a variety of performances. Whether highlighting exceptional talent or pointing out areas for improvement, Mickey-Jo's critiques serve as a trusted guide for theatre aficionados and casual attendees alike.