3 Stars

***

Pluck is a string trio of two male violinists and a female cellist. They play a selection of well known classical melodies from composers such as Vivaldi, Offenbach and Ravel.  Their comedy consists of visual gags and slapstick in time to the music. They play out a running feud between the two violinists, one being tall and overweening; the other is mischievous. Along with the cellist, they try to subvert his authority only to be met with a disdainful stare.

It is a show of two halves. The routines in the first half tend to be repetitive. The stare is used frequently. The visual gags, although well performed, are unsurprising. The best material is in the second half, beginning with the cellist singing the song ‘Fever’ during which one of the violinists takes over playing the cello in a well co-ordinated series of movements. Most of the best comedy now comes through her as she takes on a more provocative role in a couple of audience participation numbers.

Their finale is a rousing version of the 1812 overture with sound effects of the Heath Robinson type. A good, solid, safe, if undemanding, hour of entertainment for all ages.

Reviewed by Ben

Venue; Venue Number                  Gilded Balloon Teviot ; V14

Dates                                                  19 to 29 August 2010

Times                                                 17.00 to 18.00

Fringe Programme Page Number:110