Camden Fringe: CAMP, The Lion and Unicorn Theatre - ★★★ - Until August 24, 2019


Fringe theatre opens the doors for young performers and allows audiences to see new work. The result is often uneven but usually interesting and good fun. This is a piece that stresses the importance of young LGBTQ+ people recognising the history of the struggle for their rights and equality. It employs the metaphor of a gay camp where one can earn one's Gay Card by demonstrating a knowledge and appreciation of what it is to be LGBTQ+. The idea has potential and the characters to whom we are introduced are engaging, if a little two-dimensional. There is a polemic quality to the performance that really undermines 'the play'. Similarly breaking the fourth wall can be a useful theatrical device, but sometimes it can just seem awkward. There is lots to work with here: some credible performances and a fun idea. Congratulations to our fellow class mates: Camille Wilhelm as Becky, Nicholas Marrast-Lewis as Felix and Mary Fizz Waller as Mary. They worked hard and we knew they'd succeed. CAMP is an enjoyable work in progress.

Reviewed by J.C.

 Our score:  ☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
August 21, 22, & 24 at 7 pm
The Lion and Unicorn Theatre
Nearest tube: Kentish Town
Map & Location: The Lion And Unicorn, 42-44 Gaisford St, Kentish Town, London NW5 2ED, UK

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