Paul T Davies reviews Manic Street Creature now playing at Roundabout at Summerhall as part of the Edinburgh Fringe.

Manic Street Creature

Roundabout at Summerhall

Edinburgh Fringe

4 Stars

Book Tickets

Gig theatre is big on the Fringe and there are some excellent examples around. Here is one, an unflinching look at manic depression that makes us look at the situation and not shy away from it. It's a classic girl moves to London and falls in love, but it's not until her boyfriend's diagnosis that his behaviour falls into place, and her father also suffers from the condition too, as we discover when her repeated calls to him are unanswered.

This may sound a little overwhelming, but, trust me, writer and composer Malmuna Memon has written a score that picks you up and rides you on the roller coaster of love and heartbreak. Joined by her band, Rachel Barnes and Yusuf Memon,, the riffs and melodies take us to an emotionally powerful resolution.

Lyrically the piece is everything, not a word is wasted, pinning us to our seats, and seeming to come from lived experience. The support available can be difficult to access, and I really appreciate that the production has information in place for anyone struggling. The talent on stage deserve huge houses, go see!

Aug 14-15, 17-22, 24-28