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A review of Jewels at Edinburgh Fringe. Set in 1348. Everything in the world is about sex, except sex. Sex is about God. And God’s angry. The Black Death’s on a rampage. Graveyard orgies are in style. With brothels blamed, prostitute Jules has a shot at swapping sin for salvation, walled into a living grave as God’s eternal bride. But nuns just want to have fun. I went to the show on a whim, Tanwen handed me a flyer the day before and by luck I was able to see it the next day.
The setting for this show was in the The Caves At Just The Tonic, an apt venue which added to the production. This production was drama and comedy at its finest. Tanwen delivered an exceptional performance, but if you are strongly religious I wouldn’t recommend seeing this show as it may offend you.
The script was brilliantly crafted, weaving together historical context with biting satire and dark humour. Tanwen’s portrayal of Jules was nothing short of mesmerising, as she effortlessly switched between moments of raw vulnerability and wickedly funny quips.
The lighting and sound effects were particularly impressive, creating an eerie ambiance that transported the audience back to the plague-ridden 14th century. however there was also moments of light relief, with modern music also being played at times. What truly set this production apart was its fearless approach to tackling taboo subjects. The juxtaposition of religious devotion and carnal desires was handled with a deft touch, provoking both laughter and introspection. While certainly not for the faint of heart or easily offended, “Jewels” offers a thought-provoking exploration of morality, faith, and human nature. The intimate nature of this show was a draw for this production which made it a highlight for me.
It felt like a jewel nestled in the Fringe. This production undoubtedly stands out as one of the hidden gems of the Edinburgh Fringe, offering a raw and unflinching look at a tumultuous period in history through a lens of dark comedy and sharp wit. The intimacy of the venue, combined with Tanwen’s outstanding performance, created an immersive experience that left a lasting impression on the audience. By exploring the intersection of faith, sexuality, and societal norms in the 14th century, “Jewels” manages to hold a mirror up to our own time, challenging viewers to question their own beliefs and prejudices. One of the most striking aspects of the production was its ability to balance humour with poignant moments of reflection.
The laughter elicited from the audience often came with a tinge of discomfort, as the play deftly navigated the fine line between comedy and tragedy. This delicate balance is a testament to the skill of both the writer and the performers. Tanwen’s performance added depth and nuance to the story, helping to flesh out the complex social and religious dynamics of the time period.
While the show’s content may indeed be too provocative for some, it’s precisely this willingness to push boundaries that makes “Jewels” such a standout production. It embodies the spirit of the Fringe festival, offering bold, innovative theatre that challenges and entertains in equal measure. In conclusion, “Jewels” is a must-see for anyone seeking thought-provoking, boundary-pushing theatre at the Edinburgh Fringe. Its combination of historical insight, biting satire, and stellar performances makes it a true highlight of the festival.
Show Rating: A Jewel In The Fringe, worthy of 5 glistening stars!
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/jewels
