Review: CORNISH RAPPERS, Brighton Fringe

Besties, we were lucky enough to catch yet another of the Cornish offerings on show at this year’s Brighton Fringe Festival and return to The Fleapit last night, the unique performance space taking over the church on Gloucester Place. 

This time we were invited into the pit itself, ready for the almost uncomfortably intimate cabaret rap offerings of Hedluv + Passman and boy, was it intimate! Cornish Rappers does exactly what it says on the tin, bringing us the ‘Casiotone-infused rap anthems’ of creators and performers, Hedluv and Passman. A truly bizarre evening, indeed.

‘The fabled wearer of the golden jockstrap’, Passman certainly bares all and is not shy to bring the audience deep into the comically outlandish workings of the pair. While Casio maestro Hedluv definitely takes a less intense role in the duo, his addition and talent are not to be forgotten with some standout musical moments adding a real ray of sunshine to the piece.

Unfortunately Besties, the sound wasn’t hugely clear but we really struggled to hear much of the rap on offer. The pair’s energy and intensity make it almost impossible to catch any of the comic offerings and a lot of the more Cornish-based jokes went right over our heads. The audience participation appeared a little forced but of course came a lot more naturally for some towards the end of the show, with one particular gentleman joining the duo on stage for a boogie for the final number. While Passman’s ferocious energy catches us off guard in the beginning, as the show progresses and the initial bewilderment wears off, it is more of a challenge for the audience’s attention which creates apprehension for all involved.

The entire evening was very ‘out-there’, though we definitely agree it would be a very comical night out after a few drinks with the right friends. If the weird and wonderful side of theatre is your cup of tea Besties, we definitely think you’ll enjoy Hedluv + Passman’s offerings.

** Two stars 

Reviewed by: Natalie Pedro

Cornish Rappers plays at Brighton Fringe until 27 May, with tickets available here.