After taking Edinburgh by storm last year with their new show SHIFT, the insanely talented Barely Methodical Troupe return to the Fringe with their original debut show, Bromance staged in the impressive Assembly Rooms Music Hall.
Unsurprisingly, given the title, this production is all about male friendship and that’s based heavily on the friendship of the three talented performers who make up the Barely Methodical Troupe. Beginning with a segment on handshakes, it moves through various aspects of male relationships, from the way men treat other men, to the bonds of trust which can form.
While SHIFT felt like more of a circus production, Bromance has a much more nuanced feel to it, the beautiful choreography and the gorgeous soundtrack make it more akin to a ballet than a circus performance. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some heart stopping moments as Louis Gift, Beren D’Amico and Charlie Wheeller execute some incredible acrobatic feats.
Charlie Wheeller enjoys a solo segment on the cyr wheel, and it is magnificent to watch. There are lots of comedy moments built into the performance, but it also emphasises the importance of friendship amongst men, especially in a time where mental health issues are having devastating consequences for young men.
Filled with moments of tenderness, but also brut force, Bromance is meticulously constructed, creating a visual feast of dance and acrobatics which amazes and astounds its audience.
