Reviews

**** Café Comedy, Sean Davis, USA,

This ranks 16th of the 63 acts I have seen so far. Rankings and similarly short reviews of all the shows I have seen can be found at http://wwwcsif.cs.ucdavis.edu/~davis/fringe/Reviews.htm This is a series of vignettes about working in a restaurant to illustrate the work life of hospitality workers. The writing does a good job of balancing humor and exposition while exploring the tensions between waiters and both the public and the chefs. For the last act, the playwright used a TV game show setting. While this did provide an easy way to convey some information, I think that the play would have been better if he had stayed with the original restaurant setting. (Aug 11)

**** Stuart, America

Whilst this was not the most theatrically inspiring piece of theatre I have seen, it was however great fun, well executed and portrayed the frustrations of who work in the industry perfectly. The relationship between the characters was delightful especially the subtle respect but underlying contempt shown by the two main characters of Klaus and Bridgette. There are some very comical moments executed with great timing by the cast. I must be honest and say that this show was not on my list to see during my time in Edinburgh but I’m very glad I did. A must see for all who have ever worked in the hospitality and leisure industries.

***** Steve Wilson, South Africa

Having once worked in the catering industry, I was fascinated and blown away by how a show can get it so right. Between the foreign chef and kitchen assistant, the attitude of the waitress and the different types of customers - it is obvious that this production team has done its research. The different nationalities of the characters are able to bring in a diverse nature to the play and an entertaining view of the usual stereotypical patrons of a restaurant. Klaus, a German waiter who has spent his whole life serving tables focuses on the question; what are correct ‘table manners’? Finding the answer to this question brings the viewer on a journey of sympathy but hilarity on the irony of the situation. Had I ended my festival not watching this, my time in Edinburgh would have been incomplete.

**** Sarah, UK

Just seen the show and I really enjoyed it. Some wicked lines. Although it wasn't the most brilliant piece of theatre I've seen, it was well above average with creative choices that made it more than just a placid one dimension show. Thanks.