Edward Scissorhands at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow Review

Edward Scissorhands
Theatre Royal, Glasgow

19-22 November 2014

www.atgtickets.com/theatre-royal-glasgow

Reviewed by Lorna Templeton

Glasgow’s Theatre Royal is one of those venues where you always feel there’s something special coming as soon as you arrive. With its mix of grand sweeping staircases and cosy old-world charm, it’s the perfect backdrop for this sophisticated, yet very human, interpretation of Tim Burton’s 1990 masterpiece.

A stylishly choreographed dance production, the show manages to say a hell of a lot without a single word being spoken. There’s commentary on the mutual unease of the outsider and the ordinary Joe’s whose world he comes to dominate, the secrets of small-town suburbia, and forbidden love in all its gripping guises.

All of this is elegantly framed by humour, laugh out loud in places, a little nod and wink in others. These moments help move the story along and ensure what is in places a fairly dark modern fairy tale never descends into outright gloom.

There are masterful performances throughout the cast, who manage to convey a full sense of the depth of their particular character without ever opening their mouths. Quite a feat when you think about it and perhaps one we all could all draw inspiration from occasionally. The precision with which the characters are drawn is complemented by the energy and beauty of the dance, and it’s hard to believe that a full two hours have passed when the story reaches its dramatic conclusion.

There’s a standing ovation from the audience come the close and, like everything on the stage, there’s absolutely nothing formulaic about it. Witty, enchanting and as sharp as Edward’s unfortunate digits, this show comes highly recommended.

Rating: 5/5 

Tickets cost from £11.90 to £42.40 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).

Edward Scissorhands is at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow until 22 November 2014. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 7647.

Theatre Royal, 282 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 3QA | 0844 871 7647