What I liked
Simple things that stood out to me: I loved the opening playlist while entering the theater. So appropriate with the song choice. Even the opening announcement for fringe was very well themed to the show, pirate accent and all! Put me in just the right mood.
What I didn't like
It’s too short for me. Rather, I want to stay in this world longer. This show is a cool 45 minutes, which feels right. It accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. I just wouldn’t mind seeing a longer version with more songs and maybe a chance to further define a driving narrative. All things that I’m sure have been thought about by the creative team if this piece were to ever be developed further.
Just be to clear, none of what I’m suggesting to add feels like it’s missed in the current version. The show was wonderful and I highly recommend it!
My overall impression
This show knows what it is and does it sooooooo well! It’s a sea shanty revue! And if that doesn’t sound like fun to you, then get the hell away because I don’t need you there spoiling MY GREAT TIME!
I can’t tell you how much I love and respect live music in a Fringe show. Blow the Man Down is a showcase for some incredibly beautiful harmonies and moments of astounding accapella that are only amped up by the use of live instruments to create a total part mood that doesn’t go without its moments of sincerity that work well to complement the zany good time, adding some much appreciated definition and moral fiber to the piece.
My main takeaway: life is short. Get together with your best mates while ye can and sing. Dance. Drink. Eat. Smile. Cry. Laugh. Live.
A simple premise with an unexpectedly great deal of underlying poignancy that has lingered with me ever since I made port.
