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Songs of Lear
Published on Tuesday, 14 August 2012
5

5 stars

Summerhall (venue website)
Theatre
12-24 Aug, 7:15pm-8:15pm
Reviewed by Alice de Cent

 Recommended for age 16+ only.
 Free and unticketed. No pre-booking required.

Internationally acclaimed Song Of The Goat Theatre present a concert-style interpretation of the story of King Lear. Using selected moments and characters and interweaving text in English and Polish, Songs Of Lear is an exhaustingly beautiful piece of storytelling. 

With exquisite harmonies, flawless a cappella singing and a variety of folk instruments, Song Of The Goat create soaring and emotional soundscapes that evoke the spirit of the story of Lear, address the play’s themes, and do not shy away from the play’s harsher and tragic aspects.

Described as a ‘constantly evolving research project’ Songs Of Lear is a work in progress rather than a fully staged production, and truly relies on music to create the world. The ensemble is led by a conductor who introduces each piece, providing the simple context the audience needs.

With piecing vocals and soothing harmonies, it is impossible not to get caught up in the story the performers weave for the audience. Sound is created impressively using chairs as drums, and this intrinsically physical performance features moments of physical theatre and ensemble movement that are truly captivating.

Song Of The Goat Theatre are an extraordinary company, and masters of their craft. Going beyond music that is a joy to listen to, this is a collection of highly evocative and emotionally stirring works and a magical piece of theatre.

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These are archived reviews of shows from Edinburgh 2012.  We keep our archives online as a courtesy to performers, and for readers who'd like to research previous years' reviews.

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