Edinburgh Fringe: As Ye Sow – Pleasance Dome

Writer: Stewart Pringle

Director: Tom Richard

Reviewer: Tracey Lowe

The Public Reviews Rating:

There is a lack of original horror at this year’s Fringe. Maybe it’s something few writers feel they are unable to tackle. However, one of the few scary pieces this year is the brilliant As Ye Sow, which tells the story of Clifford (Jeffrey Mayhew), an elderly man who is slowly succumbing to senility. During a visit for his daughter, Susan (Scarlett Sweeney), he is reminded of an unfortunate incident that he has kept hidden for eight years, and strange things begin to happen.

As Ye Sow is an example of a great ghost story. It’s not horror in the popular gory and blood-soaked way; this play is intensely creepy. It doesn’t go for the sudden scares, the script provides real moments of tension, and some of the set pieces add to the terror is an extremely clever way.

Mayhew does a great job as vulnerable and threatened Clifford, and as his past literally comes back to haunt him, the audience really feel his claustrophobia. Sweeney is very restrained as Susan, who is trying to cope with her father’s fading memory. A special mention must go to John Garfield-Roberts, who is very unsettling in the role of Robert, the electrician.

As Ye Sow is great if you fancy a break from the usual comedy or kid’s shows, and want to sample some great new writing with some unexpected twists. Plus, it is being performed at midday, so you’ll have plenty of time to get over the scares before lights out.

Runs until 27th August

Edinburgh Fringe: As Ye Sow - Pleasance Dome, 4.4 out of 5 based on 5 ratings