After a successful run at the Hollywood Fringe, Joanna Parson has brought their one-person show to the Edinburgh Fringe at the Gilded Balloon Patter House. The Bothie venue, with its small and intimate setting, is perfectly suited for a show like this.
Deserving of much praise
Parson’s storytelling is both exciting and captivating. They effortlessly draw you into their journey as an actor working as a transcriber in New York, painting vivid pictures with their words. While the plot occasionally drags, they skilfully use audience interaction to keep us engaged and enjoying the performance.
This musical strikes a balance between heart-warming and humorous moments, all while prompting us to reflect on the media we consume daily. A standout moment for me was when Parson delved into the poignant experiences of hearing and transcribing sad stories second-hand, offering a truly thought-provoking perspective.
Although a few high notes were a touch flat, this is easily overlooked thanks to the catchy melodies and the creative ways Parson uses their guitar to set the scene. The sound effects, all created with the guitar and some other props, were used effectively to build moments of tension and excitement. They’re a true actor-musician, deserving of much praise.
I feel truly honoured to have witnessed this performance and can’t wait to see how A Transcriber’s Tale continues to evolve with future audiences.
