What I liked
I really loved the set up of this show. We meet the youngest Edwards on the bus to school. She tells us she is filming a documentary about the all the other amazing Edwards women in her life. Not only does this conceit plant the seeds for a beautiful moment later in the show, it also gives actual motivation for the characters to be speaking to the audience (the documentary camera), as opposed to the usual “gimme” of a solo show where you just accept it as an audience.
Another detail I truly appreciated was how thoughtful the scene transitions were. There was always some visual or audio element to help maintain the momentum of the show while Sidney hopped into her next costume. Just something that not every Fringe show takes into consideration. Really makes a difference!
Above all, my favorite thing about the show was witnessing the beautiful creative relationship between Sidney Edwards and her director Bryon Coolie. I had the pleasure of seeing the show with Coolie in the audience and it was such a wonderful treat to, at times, peek over at him and see how overcome with pride and joy he seemed to be watching his incredible lead light up the stage. The passion was palpable and some of the most inspiring I’ve experienced in a while.
What I didn't like
No notes on this one. An excellent show. Check it out!
My overall impression
Ms. Edwards is one of the most feel good shows of the Fringe this year. From the moment she steps on stage, Sidney Edwards has you absolutely captivated. As far as I’m concerned, Sidney Edwards BELONGS on the stage and her talents are used to great lengths as she takes us on a heartfelt journey to meet Ms. Edwards, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Edwards and Ms. Edwards, all distinctly, beautifully and SOLEY brought to life by Sidney herself.
Written by Sidney Edwards and Byron Coolie, Ms. Edwards is a vibrant, unabashed celebration of the unsung heroes in our lives, the ones who shape us in ways we may never fully understand, the ones who remind us of where we came from and help us figure out where we’re going. Our teachers. And not just the ones in the classroom.
