28 August 2004
Edinburgh Festival - Reviews
Reviewed by 'The Scotsman':
THE WRONG GARDEN
What happened to Adam and Eve after they were cast out of Eden? And did they eventually try to replant their own garden? This simple fable from Side By Side theatre group takes that as a starting point as Ada and Evan search for a way back to their comfortable paradise, amid a confusing world of wrong turns.
The actors have learning disabilities so sign and mime their roles, while the dialogue is spoken by "rather plummy" voices off stage - adding a distance to the tale.
Along the journey, they are advised by the Green Man, a sort of god-like figure, to keep looking, while a mischievous gnome tempts them to take the easy route.
The story is touching and well staged, with good costumes, effective use of music and capable performances from the cast. There’s also an amusing spoof of the designer garden craze.
Andrea Mullaney
Reviewed by 'Three Weeks' (www.threeweeks.co.uk):
THE WRONG GARDEN
If you need a break from all the regular sound and fury
of the Fringe this year, then this show is for you. Evan and Eda try
to make their way back to their lost garden paradise, and meet plenty
of colourful characters along the way. Interpretive dance, sign language
and mime are used with a soundtrack of voice-over and perfect musical
selection. The cast, which contains a group of people with learning
disabilities, present a tremendous, touching moral tale, and although
the moral of the story is clear from the outset, it is still wonderful
to watch the two leads make their journey. With sweet humour, and beautiful
movement, this gentle, relaxing presentation is a joy to behold.
Three Weeks rating: 4/5