Fringe review: A JAFFA CAKE MUSICAL, Pleasance Courtyard

Photo credit: Ben Wilkin

Since the dawn of time, one question has been asked repeatedly: is a Jaffa Cake a cake or a biscuit? Well, now the age-old question is front and centre in this new show A Jaffa Cake Musical, presented by multi-award-winning company Gigglemug Theatre (Timpson: The Musical, Scouts! The Musical).

The show is inspired by the 1991 tribunal case, which determined the true identity of a Jaffa Cake. The show is a creative concept, written and produced by Sam Cochrane, who also plays defence attorney Kevin. The music arrangements by Rob Gathercole are upbeat and catchy, clearly taking influence from musicals such as Little Shop of Horrors, Fame and Hamilton. Annoyingly, however, these uncanny musical comparisons do have musical theatre eggheads sat questioning “What song does this remind me of?” a little too often. The set by Lauren Jones is cleverly constructed and incorporates well with Ali James’ direction.

Joining Cochrane are cast members; Sabrina Messer as Kathrine who represents the prosecuting side, Harry Miller as Jaffa Cake founder Jake, Alex Prescott as The Judge, and Katie Prichard as the Tax Man. Messer, Prescott and Prichard also multi-role throughout the show and although some extra characters hold value, others like the ‘Greek Chorus’ seem forgotten and lose purpose mid-way through. Overall, the cast offers great energy and some clean harmonies. The standout performance has to be from Prichard who dazzles and captivates audiences in her solo vocal sections and hilarious Tax Man performance. Prescott must also be commended for his live piano accompaniment throughout the show.

With a comedy musical about such a wacky topic, you can expect some obvious puns and silly humour. While the cast leans into the satire, the script itself feels a little predictable. Additionally, the main message of the show, which is “if a cake can be a biscuit, you can be anything”, seems misplaced within the frivolous storyline. At times, plot points feel rushed, and structurally the show seems repetitive. Perhaps, without the restriction of a 60-minute time slot, there would be an opportunity for the ideas presented to be fully developed and for the piece to have the breathing space it needs.

It’s a family-friendly show and one that most will find entertaining. It is packed full of potential and one that should have life after the Edinburgh Fringe.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Catriona Lamb

A Jaffa Cake Musical plays at Pleasance Courtyard until 26 August, with further info here.