Ed Fringe 2010: White – Scottish Book Trust, Sandeman House

Writer: Andy Manley

Director: Gill Robertson

Reviewer: John Roberts

The Public Reviews Rating:

Cotton and Wrinkle live in a white world, they wear white clothes and eat and drink white food, they look after the white eggs that fall from the sky, with love and attention, but sometimes a rogue colour finds it’s way into their white environment and must be removed.

Creator Andy Manley who also plays the lovable rascal Cotton has created a vivid story which underneath lies a story of acceptance, one that works on many levels not only for the engrossed children whom the story is aimed at but also for the adults who share Cotton and Wrinkles adventure.

Gill Robertson’s direction is sharp and strong, with real moments of tension, excitement and wonder which constantly leaves the audience wondering what surprise is coming up next. A vivid landscape is created in a striking set by Shona Reppe, a textured world of wonderment, full of exciting little boxes of magic in which surprises keep on coming.

Andy Manley as Cotton is a delight to behold and his lovable character leaves you beaming with warmth and comfort. Ian Cameron is striking as the older and more fixed in his ways Wrinkle in a performance reminiscent of Peter Sallis – a delightfully charming grandfather figure.

White is what theatre is all about, striking performances, enchanting set, and above all true,moving and powerful storytelling, I urge every theatre going visitor of the fringe to get along and see what could possibly be one of the most touching pieces of theatre this year.