Tales She Tells

Spoons in Spotlights—Rachel Browne Th. (Crocus)

This seems to be the Fringe for stepping into the breach. Our billet, Lydia Riding, had to fulfill the stage manager’s ultimate obligation and step in when the actor and playwright Tess McManus suffered a broken jaw in a bicycle accident. Fortunately she really hits the mark in this production.

A personal story weaves through this collection of Celtic Folk tales, and the magic of Irish folklore is matched by the charm and presence that Riding brings to the stage. Each moment has an immediacy and honesty that seems to come from her own experience and the depth of emotion she felt at the time. It’s the only show of the dozen I have seen so far that has brought tears to my eyes.

I really hope that this experience inspires Lydia Riding to pursue a career in acting.

Kevin Longfield