How well would you survive in a zombie apocalypse? Swap “zombie” for “werewolf” and you essentially have the premise of Werewolf at Summerhall.
The audience are hurried into a bunker via a mesh tunnel. Once inside, you are directed to sit on a seat with a safety booklet. You cannot swap safety booklets with anyone else. Soon, the doors are closed and you and 100 strangers are now sealed inside with three wardens: the egotistical Joel, rule-follower Stella and people-pleasing Hannah, none of whom seem well equipped for the situation. An announcement on the portable radio warns of several cases of “lycanthropy” and advises the survivors to stay put for the next six days and seven nights. A simple enough idea, but of course it soon falls apart in the coming days as tensions rise and members of the community turn on each other.
Werewolf has some similarities with the role-playing game of the same name, but it is quite different. It is an interactive theatre show in which audience members take part. The safety booklet contains instructions on your role in the performance, some bigger than others. Examples include ringing a bell at every sundown, and gasping whenever the word “werewolf” is said.
Werewolf is billed as a horror comedy and it delivers on both counts. The script is sharp and funny, performed by a cast with a palpable chemistry. The audience-inclusion aspect allows the main cast to show their improvisational skills, whilst the audience gets to join in the fun.
It’s also pretty spooky. I am not a horror fan, and there were moments when I was sat, knees to my chest, peeking around my hands. It’s all in good fun though, and everyone was united in giggles of nervous laughter.
I did feel like the plot onstage between the three wardens became a little confused towards the end. However, this doesn’t really impact the audience’s enjoyment, because we’re mostly here for the experience.
If you’re looking for a solid night of entertainment at the Fringe this year, Werewolf should definitely be on your list.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
