***** 5 Stars
“The Beating Heart of The Fringe! “
For three brief years spanning 1969 to 1972 a psychedelic transgender theatre group pushed the boundaries of the world around them and others as the acclaimed “Cockettes” made a life changing impact on their generation and the generations to come with there passion for creating theatre which spoke to them as humans and indulged their eclectic sense of dress that blurred the lines between gender and sexuality. It also inspired and made stars of Devine and Sylvester!
It’s a period of our collective lgbtqia+ journey that’s often forgotten, and the Fringe has always been a home for throwing light on both forgotten stories and people. That what makes Midnight at the palace such a capturing performance. Playing its night slot at the top of Gilded Balloon’s patter house on Chamber Street this an hour of decadence, glitter and truth from a talented cast that engage the audience from the moment the curtain rises.
With music and lyrics by Brandon James Gwinn, book by Rae Binstock and directed and choregraphed by Paul McGill Midnight at the Palace feels very much a work in development but is already fully rounded with a storyline that captures the essence of the original Cockettes while telling their story with a clear focus.
Performances across the board are excellent from the stellar 8 strong ensemble cast special mention must go Gregory Haney as “Sylvester” perhaps the best known of those who emerged from the cockettes legacy his timing, vocals and presence are flawless. Andrew Horton as “Hibiscus” brings a striking physicality to the role that is every inch real and takes the audience behind the make up and sparkle to reveal the truth and often the price paid for choices made.
Midnight at the Palace is not a history lesson but a musical which pays tribute to those giants we stand on the shoulders of today and brings into view America in its most transitional time period. It’s truly the beating heart of the Fringe! This is a show which is a worthy glittering addition to any festival diary!
Midnight at the Palace, Big Yin at Gilded Balloon Patter House (Venue 24) more info go to: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/midnight-at-the-palace
ScotsGay Arts 