The Burning

What a story ! The ending especially (SPOILERS : the wives running in the wild) had me sobbing and shaken. It is quite obvious that this is a student cast and it's a book I would really love to see played by a more mature and age appropriate cast, but that doesn't mean this cast wasn't great. It was also directed very cleverly and beautifully, taking full advantage of a small space to really transport us to that little Irish village. The musical interludes were perfectly placed and executed, too. Just one fault, that is probably due to Fringe venues availabilities : it was too short. And not just in a wholesome "I wanted to see more" way, but it required more time to fully flesh out the story, characters, relationships. After such a strong introduction and before a beautiful finale, the middle seems rushed, like you cannot really comprehend the blossoming romance or why Bridget and Michael's marriage is not going so well. This play definitely deserves a rewrite at least half an hour longer, that shows the deterioriting marriage, Michael's growing suspicions and resentment, what pushes him over the edge so that he would commit such a heinous crime (because as it was, the shift felt very out of the blue to the point that it was silly), give more space to Bridget to reclaim her story, develop the romance, and then I believe that show would be close to perfect.

I was taken from start to finish by the performances of the cast, the quality of book and the creativity of the direction. It was just right and surprising at the same time. The play has the taste and the subtlety of John Carney’s Once (albeit darker). Well done to the cast and crew and to Ms Carter for this outstanding work!

Blown away by the quality of the acting for such a young troupe - genuinely not a weak link. Great direction by the playwright, Lauren Carter.

The Burning was a compelling blend of lively energy and deep emotion. The cast gave moving performances that captivated the audience, drawing us into the intensity of the story. It was a very impressive production, showing the great talent of the performers, musicians and director.

Excellent original piece based on witch trials and the subjugation of women with modern echoes. The best of school drama. The cast is spot on with snappy dialogue and create a sense of intense foreboding. Go see as a double bill with Swing Heil which follows straight after.

Fantastic new writing - taut and thought-provoking - brilliantly performed by a young and very talented cast. Highly recommended - make time for this one.

This was an amazing play - engaging, captivating and well worth the watch. One of my favourites I’ve seen this fringe.

This is a powerful story told engagingly. The group on stage had amazing synergy. Picture yourself in a bar, as an outsider of a town's "elephant in the room". They choose to share their tale with you as a reenactment. That is this play in a nutshell but it also sells it short. Loved the musical elements too.. well thought out play.
Definitely worth the watch.