Fringe review: WEATHER GIRL, Summerhall
Photo credit: Mihaela Bodlovic
Weather Girl follows Stacey, a California weather forecaster whose world is on the brink of collapse. Proving to be a sell-out sensation at the Edinburgh Fringe, it is one of three Francesca Moody Productions (Baby Reindeer, Fleabag) this year and is certainly meeting expectations.
With her perfect blonde hair, pristine face of makeup, and Stanley Cup in hand, Stacey (Julia McDermott) is ready to face the world. However, when her world starts to burn, she fears she is the only one who can see the damage. Between shallow dates, her mum’s destitution, and an artificial workplace, can Stacey find time to save her world?
Weather Girl is a blistering dark comedy written by Brian Watkins (Amazon’s Outer Range) and directed by Tyne Rafaeli. The minimal set of a green screen, varying microphones and harsh LED lights support McDermott’s performance well. Combined with some eerie sound effects, the technical elements merge brilliantly to create the desolate world in which Stacey resides. The constant switching between the lights and microphones feels chaotic but in a captivating and creative way. We are transported from the vibrant TV studio to gloomy nightclub, to burning wasteland - it is incredible what can be achieved in such a small space.
McDermott’s performance as Stacey is a masterclass in storytelling; going from a perky, charismatic chatterbox one minute to an anxiety-riddled mess the next. Her sarcastic charm radiates into perfect comedic timing, and the contrast in her ability is overwhelmingly impressive.
Weather Girl sucks you in for an hour and does not let you go. Stacey’s journey is gripping, moving and unexpected. In a world where “ignorance is bliss”, Weather Girl provides a shocking reminder of how important it is to listen to our planet.
Weather Girl will undoubtedly be a Netflix hit like Baby Reindeer in the future. But for now, if you can get a ticket, don’t hesitate!
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Catriona Lamb
Weather Girl plays at Summerhall until 26 August, with further info here.