Fringe review: DON QUIXOTE, Red Nose Company - Edinburgh Festival Fringe

This double act is unmissable. As soon as the performers Mike and Zin awkwardly enter the stage clad in their red noses (indicative of their theatre companies name ‘Red Nose Company’), peeping through the curtain, we are on their side.

Telling the story of Don Quixote, they open by riding on their guitars (one big, one miniature), riding quite literally off the humour of this as one actor struggles to straddle his ukulele-sized guitar in his oversized trousers. The vibration that their horse-like stampede causes on the stage causes the copy of ‘Don Quixote’ placed on a table on the corner of the stage to fall, and we feel the spirit of Cervantes with them on stage.

 The clowns use classic tricks in subtle ways, with just the right level of exaggeration to still be truthful. It is very cleverly executed, and feels natural and improvisatory, as they make eye contact with its audience creating an intimate and spontaneous environment, which brings in the laughter.

 The two are talented musicians also, interweaving Beatles songs throughout in a way which shouldn’t, and probably doesn’t, make much sense but supports the atmosphere created in each scene. 

 There are moments of madness, pathos, audience interaction and the two are delectably enjoyable to watch. Their pacing and chemistry is simply delightful. 

Towards the end, tomatoes are presented to the audience who have enjoyed the show so much, that they are reluctant to throw them. Go see this show and throw the tomatoes in celebration of their talent and effortless execution.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Viv Williams

Don Quixote plays at Assembly George Square Studios at 4.05pm daily* until 15 August.