Paul T Davies reviews Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder at Underbelly as part of the Edinburgh Fringe.

Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder

Underbelly, Edinburgh Fringe

4 Stars

Book Tickets

Already a cult classic, this joyous musical returns to the Fringe as entertaining as ever. Best friends Kathy and Stella host a true crime podcast, and when their favourite true crime author is murdered, they set out to solve the crime. Hitting the Only Murders in the Building zeitgeist, the musical is more a celebration of friendship told through a Northern filter.

The cast are excellent. Brontë Barbe is very strong as shy, insecure Kathy. Rebekah Hinds is an outstanding Stella, mouthy yet also unsure of her place in the world, she's like a Hull Daisy May Cooper. Josie Jacobs is equally excellent in her many roles as Felicia plus, especially when the plot becomes more ludicrous! Don't analyse it, just go along with it and enjoy this talented company!

The book and lyrics by Jon Brittan and music by Matthew Lloyd is witty and catchy, and the band are excellent. Occasionally the sound mix made it tricky to make out the lyrics, but when the characters triumph you know there is a lot more life in this show yet!