NORMAL

“The case ended on April the 23rd, 1931. The jury retired for an hour and a half. Peter was sentenced to death 9 times. The judge said that Peter’s crimes had been committed in cold blood, and that during the trial he had created the impression of cleverness, calmness, and considered deliberation. ‘Peter Kurten’, he said, ‘is normal’.” As human beings, we define ourselves by that which we are not. Sometimes this distinction translates as a list of exceptional abilities: rational thought, language, building skyscrapers. Other times, it is what we don’t do that seems most critical to our distinction from the natural world: Humans don’t kill each other for fun. We don’t eat each other humans. We don’t engage in rape as our primary mode... full review

Like venuring deeply into the circus freakshow of the human psyche. Highly unsettling, but gripping, challenging, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. See this show!... full review

A fascinating story skillfully told by three strong actors with moments of genuine surprise and theater magic. Deliciously dark fun.... full review

This might be one of the darkest shows I’ve seen at Fringe…and I loved every minute of it. We see the story of Peter Kurten, a German serial Killer, through flashbacks and current time meetings with his lawyer. What I liked about this show is that even in the world of being politically correct, where any little thing is scrutinized and protested, they followed through with showing some of the violence that Kurten had used. This is so important to do to make an impact. It was not exploitative, but emotional. You felt for these characters and the trauma they’ve been through. We see Kurten play the role of master manipulator with his lawyer. Yes, this story is about Kurten, but it’s also the story of Jutus Wehner, his lawyer. We experience W... full review

Excellent acting, great use of space, and strong tone. ... full review

This show should definitely be seen, but be ready to hear some things that might be more than you bargained for (and if you're sensitive to animals, and I am, then be prepared). But if you're ready for a challenge to your mind and senses, this is the production for you. The performances couldn't have been more mesmerizing and committed. And the direction was spot on.... full review

Unique, thoughtful and creatively ambitious. I enjoyed.... full review

This was a sharp, focused and driven show and delivered in every possible way. A must-see.... full review

A breathless assault, a dark dark dark psychological thriller that makes the audience culpable in all the horror unfolding on stage. A first-rate inquisition of our darkest tendencies. ... full review

A riveting performance by all three actors, I was completely mesmerized by this play. The fact that Peter Kurten was a real person really added to the drama, and the whole concept of what is or is not normal was something my husband and I talked about all the way home. This play is the best play we have seen at this year's Fringe, if it gets extended, don't miss it!... full review