ONE OF THE GREATEST EVER SOLO SHOWS!

HAS TO BE SEEN TO BE BELIEVED

Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Orwell's Barnyard Masterpiece, Guy Masterson's globally acclaimed solo adaptation returns to Edinburgh 30 years after its premiere, perhaps more topical than ever.

Directed by Olivier Award Winner, Masterson (The Shark Is Broken) the brilliant Sam Blythe (Method In My Madness) now dons the trotters as the Pigs, led by Napoleon, inextricably follow the time-trodden-template for totalitarianism...

But it couldn't really happen here... Or could it?

Broadway World (06/08/25) "SUPERB! A TOWERING PERFORMANCE! "
https://broadwaybaby.com/shows/animal-farm/826644

"Sam Blythe is directed by Guy Masterson in this superb one-man adaptation of George Orwell's seminal novella. The structure and characters of the original render it problematic to stage successfully, making this outstanding piece of theatre an especial treat for those keen to revisit this allegory of the Russian Revolution and commentary on totalitarianism.That the history books are replete with tales of the good-natured, the simple and the trusting being manipulated by slick oracy, hollow promises and plain thuggery is no secret. But admission that our own times are – irrefutably – beset with such manipulative practices still carries the risk of an eyebrow raised in askance (at best), or a short trip to the nearest high window (at worst).
Blythe's occasional nods to apposite moments in our own world drive home Orwell's universal themes of impotence and outrage. And there is a delicious feeling, together in this darkened space, that we are complicit in this revolutionary act – in this telling of truths.
Blythe creates both humans and animals with an extraordinary physical capacity, conjuring the tragic and the risible in equal measure. A boorish Napoleon, the silliness of the sheep, coquettish Molly, obsequious Squealer, and an array of personalities are bounced between at impressive speed. But the stars of the show are Clover and Boxer, created with such tenderness and humanity that their sufferings force an almost physical weight on the audience, who must bear witness to their journeys.
Blythe's towering performance remains respectful to the source at all times, while breathing innovative new life into phrases that have become ingrained in our collective lexicon. This insistent, breathless piece should be on the Fringe shortlist for anyone interested in quality theatre – and an imperative for anyone interested in quality of life." (Rebecca Vines)

Theatre Weekly (10/08/25) NOT JUST A MASTERCLASS, BUT AN EDURING WARNING!
https://theatreweekly.com/edinburgh-fringe-review-animal-farm-at-assembly-george-square-studio-one/

"George Orwell's Animal Farm has long stood as a chilling allegory of power, propaganda and political betrayal. In this 30th anniversary revival of Guy Masterson's legendary solo adaptation, directed by Masterson himself, Sam Blythe delivers a performance of staggering intensity and nuance that reaffirms the timeless relevance of Orwell's vision.
Wearing only a boiler suit and armed with no props, Blythe conjures an entire farmyard of characters with astonishing physicality and vocal dexterity. From the noble Boxer to the scheming Napoleon, the cynical Benjamin to the sycophantic Squealer, each animal is vividly realised. Blythe's ability to shift seamlessly between personalities is nothing short of mesmerising, and his embodiment of the animals' distinct traits keeps the audience utterly engrossed throughout.
The production cleverly incorporates subtle updates to Orwell's text, referencing contemporary political events without ever feeling forced. The parallels to modern-day misinformation and authoritarianism are striking, yet the original message remains intact: the corrupting nature of power and the ease with which truth can be manipulated. Blythe's portrayal of propaganda is particularly compelling, capturing the insidious charm of Squealer with chilling precision.
Despite occasional audience distractions, Blythe remained captivating and composed, drawing us deeper into the narrative with each beat. His command of the stage is total, transforming the bare space into a vivid landscape of revolution and betrayal. The absence of set or costume only heightens the impact, allowing the storytelling to shine in its purest form.
This production is not just a masterclass in solo performance, it is a vital reminder of Orwell's enduring warning. Blythe's interpretation is fresh, urgent and deeply affecting. Under Masterson's direction, the show retains its legendary status while gaining a bold new voice.
In a festival brimming with talent,Animal Farmstands out as a triumph of theatrical storytelling. A breathtaking tour de force that brings Orwell's barnyard to life with wit, urgency and unforgettable power." (Greg Stewart)

UK Theatre Web (11/08/25)
https://www.uktw.co.uk/news/Animal-Farm/7295.html

"Guy Masterson's epic interpretation of Animal Farm is delivered here by Sam Blythe. It is an exceptional performance. As well as narrating, each animal is physically and vocally identified and Blyth switches deftly from one to the next. His timing is superb as he drives the story forward. On a black stage with a few sound effects Orwell's world is brought to life. A few topical updates add to the continuing relevance. Catch it while you can, Comradse!" (Derek)

Edinburgh Reporter (04/08/25) - MORE RELEVANT NOW THAN WHEN ORWELL WROTE IT!
https://theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2025/08/fringe-2025-animal-farm-/

"Animal Farm is a text that many have read (often at school). It'sa story that is, in its broad outlines, familiar to us, as are some its famous lines (‘All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others'). This familiarity can mean we overlook it. Some may consider 1984 to be Orwell's most enduring work, and Animal Farm a lighter, less significant work. This dynamic one man adaptation, by Guy Masterson, is performed by physical actor Sam Blythe underscored the quality of Orwell's ‘fable' and the relevance of its themes. As Blythe said at the very end, it was ‘deeply frightening' that Orwell's words were ‘more relevant than when he wrote them'.
Very sensibly, the script largely kept to Orwell's beautifully crafted words, with minor alterations – including some references to more recent politics, especially to Trumpian politics. This was wise, given that this is Orwell's most crafted piece of fiction. His famous work is widely considered one of the finest works of political satire, one in which deep themes are articulated in clear and powerful prose.
Anna Funder has, in her recent book Wifedom, suggested that the particularly polished prose of Animal Farm can be traced to the influence of Orwell's first wife Eileen. She was an English Language and Literature graduate from Oxford, skilled in editing and composing text. So, keeping largely to the original text was a wise move.
The performance began urgently, with Old Major's (the Lenin/ Marx figure) speech delivered in near darkness. This outlined the utopian vision and the laws of Animalism that would, as the story developed, be eroded and betrayed. With a lot to cover, the first twenty minutes or so, was a fraction rushed, not allowing Orwell's to 'breathe' sufficiently. Happily, the pace became more varied as the performance progressed, giving the words the space and weight they deserved.
With such a well-known book, it's always important to actually hear the actual words and give the audience time to absorb them and think of their wider meaning and relevance. The quality of the original text shines through, its deeper meanings, beyond a allegory of the Russian Revolution and the development of Stalinist Russia. That Russia is again an authoritarian state, controlled by a deeply manipulative leadership again demonstrates the pertinence of Orwell's text, first published in 1945.
The audience entered the theatre to the sounds of Pink Floyd's Pigs, the blend of melodic discordant and sounds preparing the audience for what lies ahead; of utopian ideals perverted. On the stage sit a hat and a whip, another foretaste of how the story will develop. These violent undertones become a significant part of the tale, especially when the pigs start to utilise packs of vicious dogs to do their dirty work, to enforce new rules as they emerge.
A key part of Orwell's argument is one against simplistic notions in politics. For example the argument that all that the animals needed to achieve a good society is to get rid of human control. Once that is achieved, a utopian future is at hand. It overlooks the drawn out and determined efforts needed to create free and democratic societies. Some may think of such notions in our contemporary politics, such as that removing the influence of the EU on Britain would set it on the path to a glorious revival as Global Britain. Or perhaps that Scotland becoming an independent country will, by itself, create a much better, more equal society. It's another example of the relevance of Orwell's take, as expressed through well-crafted fiction.
As one of Orwell's biographers, Bernard Crick argued, most polemical writings on politics date very quickly. Fiction can, in skilled hands, produce something with lasting significance. Getting serious and nuanced political ideas into a work of fiction is not easy, but if achieved can create something with lasting relevance. Many, of varied political persuasions, see Orwell's 1984 as starkly relevant, its deep pessimism connecting to our current age. This performance illustrated that Animal Farm also has a darkness at its core, though dressed in the gentle mode of ‘A Fairy Story'.
As Sam Blythe has to play all the parts, he has to use a variety of accents and voices to differentiate the characters. And to act out the more dramatic scenes, he has to contort its body to reproduce the movements of the different animals. This works well and adds to the impact of the performance. For instance, supported by disturbing sound effects, his embodiment of the pack of wild dogs is very well performed. Particularly effective are some of the final scenes, making very effective use of silhouettes and lighting. As Napoleon (the Stalin figure) becomes ever more authoritarian, red lighting is used to warn us of the danger posed to any animal who questions his authority all makes any comments about the continual revisions to the laws of animalism.
Chief propagandist Squealer is played menacingly, his bureaucratic language (‘that will be attended to') delivered in a way that it's dripping with threat. The relevance of such propaganda was made clear with regular references to ‘fake news', and also to ‘alternative facts'. The ultimate threat was rhetorically asking some of the sceptical animals whether they wanted to return to the pre-revolutionary era - (‘do you want Jones to return?')... as we know, one of Orwell's central themes was the misuse of language in politics.
The audience was kept enthralled throughout, impressive given most will be familiar with the basic ark of the narrative.  Also impressive given that it was a performance of almost 80 minutes. Many performances in the fringe are about 50 minutes, with some performers struggling to retain an audience throughout that. Blythe certainly did not struggle to do this, though what such a performance takes out of the actor was evident when he stopped for a lengthy and much deserved drink of water halfway through. It demonstrated how much a performer must put into such a show. Particularly well done were some of the emotional scenes involving the ‘Stakanovite’ cart-horse Boxer (‘I will work harder’). Especially when it’s revealed that instead of being sent away for hospital treatment he is being sent to the knacker. The words ‘boxer was never seen again’ were delivered in a particularly affecting way. This leads to Clover’s emotional, elegiac final performance of the soon to be banned anthem Beasts of England. 
The extended applause from the audience at the end was well-deserved. This is a performance that illustrates, in many ways, Animal Farm is Orwell’s enduring masterpiece. It’s an impressive and arresting performance which breathes new life into a familiar text.“ (Charlie Ellis)

One-4-Review - (08/08/25) - A RIVETING TOUR DE FORCE!
https://one4review.co.uk/2025/08/animal-farm-4

Animal Farm delivers a riveting 75 minutes of solo theatre, building on Guy Masterson's celebrated adaptation of Orwell's novel. Performed by Sam Blythe with remarkable energy and precision, the show grips the audience from its first moments and never lets go. With minimal props, including a wooden kist doubling as a bale of straw, Blythe conjures the entire barnyard, slipping seamlessly between Napoleon's steely authority, Boxer's honest strength, and Squealer's oily spin.
There were a couple of slips in delivery, even a quick prompt at one point, but given the sheer volume of dialogue, the multitude of characters, and the relentless pace, these moments are easily forgiven. Blythe's physical and vocal dexterity more than compensate, and the focus quickly returns to the story's momentum.
What makes this production particularly alive is how it interweaves contemporary touches – references to "fake news, "the threat of "WMC "(weapons of mass castration), and even the appearance of an animal named Farage. These additions land with knowing laughs, underscoring Orwell's enduring relevance without feeling forced.
The result is a powerful, fast-paced retelling that balances humour, political bite, and theatrical craftsmanship. Blythe's performance is a tour-de-force of character work, keeping the audience engaged, amused, and occasionally unsettled. It's a potent reminder that Animal Farm isn't just about history, it's a mirror that we still need to look in to. (Howard)

The Quintessential Review (11/08/25) - HIGH QUALITY IN EVERY RESPECT
https://theqr.co.uk/2025/08/11/edfringe-review-animal-farm (WJ Quinn - 11/08/25)

"Guy Masterson's 30th anniversary resurrection of his one-man Animal Farm is in safe hands with Sam Blythe on stage. It's a big ask, as a show, not only in terms of abridgement, but also performance. Bringing farmyard animals to life without it seeming like a children's show is no mean feat; the pitfalls are many.
The show, smartly, keeps faithfully to the text, with a few modernisms assiduously sprinkled in to cement parallels with our modern discourse on ‘Fake News' and the global resurgence of authoritarianism.
Masterson's red pen is busiest in the earlier passages of Orwell's seminal novel, keen to bring us through the animals' war with humanity, and into Napoleon, the Stalin-esque pig's progressively more despotic rule.
If Blythe did not so swiftly manifest the central cast of characters, it would certainly seem even more imbalanced. However, with such vibrant creatures such as stolid Boxer, the heavy horse, or weasely Spin-doctor Squealer the pig, it feels like a pacey descent into a conflict no one is truly prepared to deal with, not the combat, and certainly not the aftermath.
Helping to reduce the threat of kids' show sensitivities, Masterson wisely leaves the stage blank and black, except for a soap box, a whip, and a bowler hat. Blythe uses the entire space, not always in motion, but never rooted in one place. Each animal, be they sheep, cow, horse or chicken, is created with a blend of well-judged physicality and voice modulation.
Early in proceedings, when there are several prominent pigs to create, there is some prospect of confusion, but as the casualties mount, these issues evaporate.
Lighting also proves central to ‘Animal Farm's' success, whether bathing the stage in red as Napoleon's grip on power strengthens, or slowly plunging the auditorium into darkness as the atrocities mount. Snippets of recorded animal noise add a little extra dimension, but are perhaps extra to requirements. This is, nevertheless, a high-quality production in every respect, with nothing left to chance or unpolished.
For those who know Orwell's novel well, this is an impressive re-telling; for those who don't, I suspect it will be that much more thrilling. Aside from entertainment, theatre exists to reflect our world back to us, and to raise questions. This fark fable, told very well, certainly does that." (WJ Quinn)

EDFRINGE 2025 PUNTERS' REVIEWS

Jeffrey Deans - 26 AUG 2025
Truly amazing performance, well deserved standing ovation.

Annmarie Ashton - 21 AUG 2025
Went to see Animal Farm today phenomenal performance from Sam Blythe .I have adored this book since I was a child and I certainly was not left wanting by this stunning performance.Highly Highly recommend...

Joy Boole - 21 AUG 2025
Absolutely incredible performance. Just so so captivating.

Vincent - 21 AUG 2025
Amazing performance that kept all my attention until the very end - 5/5

Eva Donahey - 20 AUG 2025
Such an impressive performance! I went with a group of friends and we were all absolutely astonished with the show :) The physicality of each and every character made the story very understandable and impactful. Incredible job :)!”

Heather Lamb - 20 AUG 2025
“Didn't know what to expect but this show captured me from start to finish! This is an amazing one man show who tells the story in an extremely engaging way for all. Standing ovation at the end today and well worth it!”

Martin MacLeish - 19 AUG 2025
“Sam Blythe's performance in Animal Farm is truly sensational! The best one man show I have ever seen! Brilliant......don't miss it!”

Sioux Sharp - 18 AUG 2025
“A phenomenal tour de force. Sam Blythe gives a breathtaking performance, as all the animals (and humans) in Orwell’s classic, and still prescient, allegory. He is not to be missed. Having visited the fringe for 20 years and working in the media in more I have seen a handful of excellent theatre shows and Sam is one of the - totally superb. If the criteria is out of 5 stars, he’s a 6”

David King - 17 AUG 2025
“Sam Blythe does a wonderful job with this painfully poignant allegory. His one man show catches you up from the very start and carries you right through to the dramatic conclusion. He is a talented actor, switching effortlessly through all the various characters involved. A high energy, compellingly relevant work of dramatic art.”

Gareth Scott - 17 AUG 2025
“A very powerful performance that has stuck with me. Very relevant in today's political climate. Highly recommend.”

Mike Paris-Johnstone - 17 AUG 2025
“This book changed me at school 40 years ago. I still remember key characters and the messages Orwell was trying to deliver all this time later. We took our 16/17 yr olds to see Sam/Guy in action yesterday and walked out fizzing. As pertinent today as it ever was, and truly worrying that the kids could see the parallels with the modern era so clearly. I wanted to jump to my feet to give a standing ovation, but it just felt wrong given the context. Such a pleasure to see such care/attention/professionalism/diligence/intelligence and sheer ability in 75 mins. The kids are performing 1984 here and this couldn’t have set up their week any better. Genuinely excellent and a fab demonstration of how to deliver exciting and relevant storytelling. Top drawer "

Juliet Knight - 17 AUG 2025
"This was an excellent one man adaptation of the George Orwell classic. The actor brought the character of the animals to life using nothing more than body language and his voice, showing incredible dexterity in switching rapidly between them. There is a real sense of drama and suspense as the story progresses from its idealistic beginning to its inevitable corrupt end. Even though I knew the story well, I got new things out of this adaptation and found it poignant and thought provoking. Highly recommend."

Lucy Murphy - 16 AUG 2025
"Absolutely phenomenal performance! Stand out show and would urge everyone who can to see it!! Sam Blythe is an exceptional talent and I was enthralled from start to finish! I'm now booking to see him perform Method in My Madness…cannot get enough!!"

Marie Stanley-Speed - 16 AUG 2025
"This show deserves your attention and is worth the ticket price. Outstanding performer combining a variety of voices and physical characterisations with engaging storytelling. The audience, with me were spellbound. Humour helped by a few subtle references to recent political events. Comfortable venue."

Anonymous Punter - 15 AUG 2025
"3/5 Great adaptation of animal farm. Well performed and enjoyable to watch."

James Newall - 15 AUG 2025
"5/5* Guy Masterson directs Sam Blythe. Wonderful one man show. Sam Blythe captures all the parts so clearly that the story rattles along. An extraordinary vocal and physical tour de force. Recommended for everyone, not just those for whom it is on their syllabus!"

Dan F - 15 AUG 2025
"Went to see this on a recommendation and so glad I did. Sam's character work was incredible! His movements and voices made this show mesmerising from start to finish. I was engaged throughout. Go see it!"

Catherine Waters - 15 AUG 2025
"Been here a week and seen 20 shows and this is the best so far! Masterful engaging solo performance of a very relevant classic. Using unique spoken word and full body movement to give instantly identifiable voices to all the characters . I loved it, go see it!!"

Richard McKenzie-Small - 15 AUG 2025
"Sam Blythe put his heart and soul into a wonderful, roller-coaster ride, which was one of the best pieces of theatre I have seen in ages. Go see it!

Hyemee Shin - 14 AUG 2025
"I'm convinced his one-man play will go down in history as the original novel did. I offer my highest praise for his exceptional performance.

Liza Grashion - 14 AUG 2025
"An amazing performance! A gifted performer delivering a classic story with clever references to modern politics. A must see."

Amelia Modlin - 14 AUG 2025
Blythe is simply superb. Magnetic from beginning to end, he embodies every role fully and with such specificity I forgot I was watching a one man show. I've seen many many one man performances, and this is a top tier, master-class tour de force. Highly relevant and poignant, this production sheds new light on our trying time in an accessible and engaging way. If you are here for real, powerful art, this is a must-see!"

Raffaella Warren-Barbieri - 14 AUG 2025
"Exceptional. In the saturated market of one person shows, Animal Farm feels like a full production and Sam Blythe pulls off the entire narration masterfully. A fantastic, if hard watch in the current climate, which more people need to see."

Deborah - 13 AUG 2025
One of the best theatre shows for us this year. Sam was brilliant, the 75 mins flew by. The production successfully encapsulated the original story bringing it successfully to life on the stage. So relevant still. Please support this amazing actor and show. Well done and thank you."

David Billingham - 13 AUG 2025
"A 10 out 10 tour de force. A timeless tale that we need more than ever. Highly recommended."

Drew Kerr - 13 AUG 2025
"I have been to 18 shows so far on this 2025 Fringe binge and this still remains my absolute favorite. A tour-de-force performance by Sam Blythe that truly must been seen. The script has been tweaked to show how Orwell's story is directly connected to what is going on now in the world. This is a riveting, never-a-dull-moment performance. I hope Blythe takes this show to the US, where it REALLY should be seen."

Josh - 11 AUG 2025
"Really good 10/10 - Even without knowing the book I understood everything. As a European some sections were hard to understand but totally manageable."

Kaz Freedman - 11 AUG 2025
"Blew away any expectations I had. A gripping adaptation of the Orwellian classic. I was in awe of Blythe the entire time by his constant energy and ability to single-handedly portray all the characters. Would recommend. "

Rosie B - 10 AUG 2025
"Totally captivating, chillingly relevant! This performance is absolutely unmissable. 4 legs good, 2 legs bad, Sam Blythe brilliant!! "

Somaya Khan - 10 AUG 2025
"Sam Blythe is a remarkable performer. In 75 minutes, he singlehandedly takes us through the political statement that is Animal Farm and embodies all the major animal parts, each with its distinct voice, accent, speech patterns, and physical characteristics. His energy is outstanding and there's not a moment in the show that drags. I'd have loved to see him perform Hamlet as well but unfortunately I couldn't make the time. But I know I'll be looking for his shows at the next Fringe coz he's brilliant."

Amanda Parker - 10 AUG 2025
"Sam Blythe is an outstanding actor who really does justice to this fringe classic. The physicality of his performance and ability to transform from one character to another, showing their animalistic traits alongside their personalities is an impressive feat. Don't be fooled by the slightly silly looking poster, this isn't a clownish parody. The production is true to Orwell's original intent which as Sam notes to the audience after the show is sadly even more relevant today than it was at the time it was written.
To note, Sam is also performing a one-man Hamlet, Method in my Madness, which I cannot wait to see! It's playing around 11 in the morning, but he is good enough to forsake a lie in!"

Stephanie - 10 AUG 2025
"A captivating piece of narrative and physical theatre, and also a timely reminder of the genius of Orwell's original allegory. It was performed with truly amazing energy,. A wealth of different stances and different voices were used for the characters, so that the audience was never confused about which character is speaking as the story unfolds. A really powerful performance, maximum stars from me."

Jane - 10 AUG 2025
"Brilliantly performed - such energy! Really interesting to hear this story again. Increasingly relevant for our times. Sadly."

Mary Barber - 10 AUG 2025
"Fantastic show and what great acting. Love the story which is so relevant today and presented so well. Go see it."

Howard Becke - 9 AUG 205
"Brilliant show. Completely engaging and so cleverly presented. Go and see it. "

Janine - 8 AUG 2025
"Excellent. Very engaging and timely interpretation of this most important cautionary tale against authoritarianism. DON"T MISS THIS!"

Karen Tindale - 7 AUG 2025
"Amazing performance!"

Thomasin Lockwood - 7 AUG 2025
"Like a lot of people, I studied Animal Farm at school. It always felt like an analogy of something that happened in the past. Now it feels like it's a play about something that's happening now. A very effective, powerful adaption performed by an incredible actor."

Alison - 6 AUG 2025
"Excellent, engrossing performance from Sam. Loved the odd current reference. One of the best shows we've seen in 10 years coming to the fringe."

Anna M - 5 AUG 2025
"Remarkable performance and production, in awe of Sam Blythe's talent. Enjoyed by 13 year old and 53 year old equally! "

Pamela Jones - 5 AUG 2025
"What a fantastic play. Thoroughly enjoyable…even more relevant today than when written in 1945.."

James C - 5 AUG 2025
"Go and see this. Sam Blythe's performance captivates from the outset, while he conjures out of nothing the sights, sounds and smells of Animal Farm to deliver the book's ever-relevant messages. The production is minimal while enhancing Blythe's physical presence, which he uses to superb effect along with his characterisation of all the animals. Really wonderful. Skip a stand-up and go see Animal Farm."

Joseph H - 5 AUG 2025
"A great show. Highly recommend for those looking for a unique take on Orwell's masterpiece."

Richard - 5 AUG 2025
"Absolutely fantastic. Huge effort and achievement by Sam Blythe.
Forget the endless stand ups you must see this show."

Mia Rowe - 5 AUG 2025
"Absolutely loved this show. Amazing script and physical theatre. Tells the story of Animal Farm in a creative and new way - my favourite show from the fringe so far!"

Patrick Dunne - 3 AUG 2025
"I saw this today and it was brilliant. A vital, Important story brilliantly embodied and wonderfully done. Outstanding one man performance of one of the 20th centuries most Important stories. Go and see it. "

Claire Renshaw - 3 AUG 2025
"Amazing! Mesmerising show - every character was utterly believable and the story is as relevant today as it was when written. Brilliant!!"

Kathleen Noonan - 3 AUG 2025
"This excellent one man show is a superb, high energy, adaptation of the still relevant tale of Animal Farm. 5 stars! "

Macew - 2 AUG 2025
Rating: 5/5. - "A worthy re-telling of this classic tale. Sam does a brilliant job playing the roles of the different animals on the farm, and his commanding performance as Napolean the pig makes us feel as if we were one of the animals under his rule! A tale published in 1945 but still so relevant today."

Lesley Mackay - 2 AUG 2025
"Excellent, still remains very relevant, delivered by a very versatile and talented actor. The performance was captivating".

GETYOURCOATSON (20/08/25)
GET YOUR DOUBLETS ON AND GO AND SEE THIS!
https://getyourcoatson.com/2025/08/20/sam-blythe-method-in-my-madness-a-one-man-hamlet-venue-45-until-aug-19th/

“Is Hamlet mad? Is the Royally gazumped Prince a mindless brute or meditative Brutus? We enter to find ourselves locked in with someone, someone who just can’t seem to get Hamlet out of his mind. There is a mid-century, Patrick Hamilton quality to the gaslight. Our narrator switches back and forth between his present bare circumstances and the play in which so much of not very much happens, until THAT final scene.
Hamlet is Shakespeare’s magnum opus and one of his most successful literary works, published twice in quarto editions (1603 and 1604) before the First Folio (1623). The play’s early and enduring popularity, on stage and off, makes it accessible for audiences, who will know the key plot points and themes as well as they know their chocolate bars and cartoon cereal characters. For actors, however, the destination is more troublesome. How to be distinctive yet harmonious, respectful yet challenging, insightful yet universal? Above all, how to be memorable?
This EdFringe we’ve seen Sam Blythe directed by Yorick (Guy Masterson’s ‘Animal Farm’) and by Ophelia (Elf Llyons, ‘Method in My Madness’). Unlike the Orwell adaptation, in this one-man Hamlet, Sam plays the drama primarily through the title role, amplified and distorted by the abridgement’s premise – a man locked in a room with his own thoughts. An unseen Richard Burton impersonator loftily intones the first soliloquy, topping and tailing the drama. There is a Welsh theme running throughout the modern frame, as though Captain Fluellen and Dafydd ap Gwilym have captured the drama by sudden storm. All of these subtle hints buttress the purpose of the show, which is a fine and loving tribute to Blythe’s own father – a Welsh actor who never got to play The Dane.
At 2,200 lines, even the “bad” First Quarto would have had a running time of 2 hours. The Second Quarto’s 3,800 lines equate to the 4 hours plus, jeered at by Blackadder – “Who’s Ken Brannagh? I’ll tell him you said that, and I think he’ll be very hurt.” The First Folio, from which most modern editions are drawn, sits at around 3,500 lines. Getting that down to 60 minutes of comprehensive, comprehensible stage traffic requires some tough choices to be made. This is especially true for a production attempting to reconcile the alleged artistic differences between Wills Shakespeare and Kemp. 
Having played Peter, Dogberry, Costard, and Bottom, the infamously ad-libbing clown Kemp left The Lord Chamberlain’s Men around 1599, making his famous jig from London to Norwich. The professional ghost of Kemp haunts the text of Hamlet, not least in the play’s most iconic moment. The Light directorial touch of Kemp’s own favourite daughter, the ultra-acclaimed EdFringe giant Elf Llyons, melts the play’s too solid flesh into a resolute dew that lightly shimmers and sparkles throughout. Here is a memorable ‘Hamlet’.
‘Method in My Madness’ confirms what many of us have been thinking for a while, that Sam Blythe is the coming man of the EdFringe stage, a moody, broody, transatlantic temporal offshoot of the trigger-happy Booth dynasty perhaps. Possessed of both comic grace and dramatic power, Blythe’s affectionate connection with his audience is Mastersonierian in the obvious regard channelling in both directions across the footlights. Come for the when Frank got Dean and Jerry back together reconciliation of auld bad performative blood – Kemp and Shakespeare are friends again. Stay for a star who is rising on the EdFringe skyline. Get your doublets on at the double and go see this!” (Dan Lentell)