If you’re bringing improvised sketch comedy to Fringe, it has to be truly exceptional to compete with the multitude of renowned acts that return year after year. CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation promises big, but falls short.
Could it be that they are resting on their laurels?
The show follows the classic improv format within the framework of a detective story: the audience provide the victim’s name, occupation and murder weapon and the troupe flesh out the rest of the story, guided by a lead detective who addresses the audience. Other than a few votes via crowd cheers, the audience participation is infrequent and opportunities for plot prompts are missed, which would add intrigue and further spontaneity.
There are some standout members of the team that help drive the plot and ensure their fellow actors stay on course. Nevertheless, the dialogue often feels laboured as the performers strive to 'be funny', which (as many actors will know) breaks a key rule of improvisation. To their credit, the scene changes are very slick and premises are conjured up quickly, showcasing their talent for thinking on their feet. However, this is curtailed by scenes that become circular and lack focus, not revealing any further clues for the audience in the ‘crime scene investigation’.
There was a slightly lacklustre air to this particular performance, which was disappointing. Perhaps the halfway point of Fringe has caused some fatigue, but for a full house, it felt the team were relying on easy laughs and a generous audience. Could it be that they are resting on their laurels?
