C Aurora
Aug 22nd, 2024
Plunging into the unique presence of the Edinburgh Fringe, I made my way to the Grassmarket, seeking out the Church of the Sacred Heart that hosts the parts of the C venues’ program which have presents those shows a little quirky, or have a deeper meaning to find. Among these stands ‘Side Quest’, a show that combines Dungeons and Dragons with improv, creating a great, interactive world of their own.
The idea for this great piece came with the realisation that role playing is, essentially, improv. Fun was ever present, directed by a man in a hooded cape and a deliciously wise demeanour, who hurried us along at great speed, telling the story as it unfolded, and unfold it did in various & clever ways, as a throw of dice determined what would happen next, a large inflatable cube given to the audience that could land six different ways.
There were several protagonists appearing on stage, dressed in costumes of ye olden times, all intricately woven into the rich tapestry of a story, & all without the knowledge of what might exactly happen next. Today served up operatic encounters along Dick Whittington like journeying, all at the behest of this fantastic large dice & directed by our man in the robe, enjoying himself immensely, pacing frantically about the stage and relishing his position as the driver of the show.
Overall, Side Quest was a thoroughly enjoyable show outwith the standard Fringe fare. Using all the tools in the box, the performers innovate and ease us all into an hour of fun. We, by the way, were of all ages, for Side Quest and all its fineries is packed with the universal kind of action that revs up our spirits as we just, well, get involved.
Daniel Donnelly
themumble.uk 