EDINBURGH FRINGE: Bog Witch at the Traverse, Traverse 1 (1 hr 20 mins)*****

EDINBURGH FRINGE: Bog Witch at the Traverse, Traverse 1 (1 hr 20 mins)*****

Bog Witch is the show everyone is talking about. If I don’t see anything else at this year’s Fringe I will go away satisfied.

I am tempted to say little more, because it isn’t what it seems, and part of its enjoyment is in the surprises it offers as the story unfolds. 

But there is much to commend this show without giving too much away.

To begin with, writer, performer, documentary maker and screen writer Bryony Kimmings’ imagination and presentation is second to none. At its heart, Bog Witch is about a woman who is searching to fill the hole in her soul. It’s an autobiographical account of plugging back into Nature in a last ditch attempt to be happy and sane and is essential viewing in the world in which we find ourselves. Her journey teaches us to look at life more sustainably, but by way of stand-up comedy, songs and folk horror from the best of storytellers, beautifully crafted, beautifully staged, and with an ending which gives wannabe thespians the chance to get in on the act.

This is an experience you mustn’t miss. It is theatre at its best.

Image: Rosie Powell

Bog Witch is at the Traverse, Traverse 1 until Aug 30

It then tours:

Sept 9: St George’s Hall, Bradford

Sept 11-12: The Dukes, Lancaster

Sept 22: The Sherman Theatre, Cardiff

Sept 30-Oct 1: Leeds Playhouse