*****

I first discovered Les Enfants Terribles several fringes ago and have kept an eye out for them since. Each year they seemed to change, then they had a few years with similar themes utilising puppets and music. 2009 sees yet another twist.

Billed as 'a spine-chilling tale of obsession and murder' it is almost a ghost story. Walking through an insane asylum, the psychologist is looking out for lunatics to cure. Here he sees Ernest sitting in a darkened room quietly, windows shuttered to keep out any sparks of moonlight.

It is from this point we get to see Ernest's story displayed before us, told in the first, second and third person. Utilising mime, music, movement and drama. It is extremely difficult to describe this production without spoiling the effect.

The four performers are Grace Carter, Rachel Dawson, Oliver Lansley and Joe Woolmer, each one uniquely talented in performance and orchestration. Oliver Lansley is definitely a warped person he is the creative influence having written this and other Les Infants works. Emma Earle had the unenviable job of directing the piece.

This fascinating dark expedition in to the tortured psyche of an unstable character is gripping from its first discordant second until its final glint of moonlight realisation.

*****

Ernest and the Pale Moon

Company: -   Les Enfants Terribles Theatre Company in association with Pins and Needles Productions

Venue: -  Pleasance Above V33  

Dates: -  5th  to  31st  August  2009 not 19

Times: -  14-20  to  15-20   

Fringe Programme Page: -  p        F21