Returning to the Edinburgh Fringe after an acclaimed debut in 2024, Bonding is back with a refined and emotionally resonant update, directed by OFFIE-winner Matthew Parker. Written and performed by Cyril Blake, this one-man show is a heartfelt exploration of masculinity, legacy and the enduring myth of James Bond.
Blake plays Stephen, a man who has modelled himself on 007: he’s got the tuxedo, the watch and a penchant for shaken drinks. But beneath the suave exterior lies a deeper story, one that interrogates what it means to be a man in a world where Bond’s brand of masculinity is increasingly seen as outdated. The show cleverly weaves together 60 years of Bond history with 30 years of Stephen’s life, culminating in a poignant reflection on fatherhood, identity and emotional vulnerability.
Blake is an affable and charismatic performer, effortlessly drawing the audience into his world. His delivery feels more like a conversation than a monologue, peppered with trivia and easter eggs that will delight Bond aficionados. Yet Bonding is far more than fan service. The narrative gradually reveals its emotional core, and the seemingly light-hearted anecdotes from earlier scenes take on new meaning as the story unfolds.
The production is slick and well-paced, with Parker’s direction ensuring that the transitions between humour and heartbreak are seamless. Blake’s performance is confident and compelling, and whether your favourite Bond is Connery, Craig or Brosnan, you’ll find a touch of them in Cyril’s portrayal.
What makes Bonding truly special is its universality. While Bond fans will revel in the references, the show’s themes of connection, loss and self-discovery resonate far beyond the world of espionage. It’s personal, raw and deeply relatable.
With its blend of nostalgia, wit and emotional depth, Bonding is an hour well spent at the Fringe. It’s a tribute not just to Bond, but to the bonds that shape us.
