Midnight at the Palace: Edinburgh Fringe Review – The Cockettes Tribute 2025

A Glittering, Imperfect Dive into The Cockettes‘ World: “Midnight at the Palace”

“Midnight at the Palace” bursts onto the stage with a delightful energy, promptly captivating you with its cheeky, quirky, and undeniably cute aesthetic.The production is a vibrant,‍ imaginative spectacle, brimming with a winning spirit that promises a unique theatrical experience.

Though, beneath the glitter and exuberance lies a significant limitation: the show feels frustratingly⁤ brief.⁣ The narrative traces The Cockettes’ ‌rise from a San​ Francisco counterculture phenomenon to a fleeting attempt at New York⁢ glory,only to see⁣ them return home after a disappointing opening night. While ​you gain a sense of the troupe’s ethos – a ⁤party of chosen family and radical self-expression – the production lacks the depth ‍needed to truly explore thier groundbreaking artistry.

The play hints at the avant-garde nature of their work and their bold attempt ⁤to translate a liberated ⁤lifestyle onto the stage, but these elements remain largely unexplored.A‌ central dynamic between Hibiscus (Andrew Horton) and Sylvester⁢ (Gregory Haney) offers potential, highlighted by standout musical numbers like “A crab on uranus” and “There’s a Lady on the Stage.” Unluckily, Hibiscus’s refusal to tour with the group and the resulting conflict are quickly resolved, diminishing the dramatic tension.

A Backdrop of tumultuous Times

The broader political anxieties of the era – the vietnam War,the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., racial unrest, and student protests – flicker in the background thru stylized ‍”news-stand” summaries. This approach, while ⁤attempting to contextualize the troupe’s existence, feels somewhat superficial. At times, the intentional chaos onstage ‍veers into⁢ genuine confusion, and the direction doesn’t always clarify the unfolding events.

Furthermore, sound amplification issues occasionally ⁢obscure lyrics, hindering your full gratitude⁢ of the musical performances. Despite this, the cast delivers sparky vocals, with Baylie Carson as Sweet Pam especially shining with her characterful portrayal.

Joyful Mayhem Prevails

You’ll find yourself drawn in by Brandon James Gwinn’s songs and the dazzling spectacle of the performances. Even‌ with a somewhat ⁢thin storyline, the show’s infectious joy and unrestrained zest are⁣ undeniably invigorating. “Midnight at the‍ Palace” is a celebration of ⁣individuality and a reminder ‌of the power of artistic rebellion.

Ultimately,this production offers a glimpse into a fascinating moment in countercultural history,even if it leaves you wanting more. It’s a vibrant,imperfect,and ultimately uplifting experience.

Where to See It: Big Yin at Gilded ⁢Balloon Patter House, Edinburgh, until august 24th.
Explore ⁣More: Discover additional reviews from‌ the Edinburgh festival.