ED FRINGE 2023 REVIEW | Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder
Copyright: MIHAELA BODLOVIC★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Reviewer - Kathryn
*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
Sometimes all you need at the end of your day at the Fringe is a high energy mini-musical with catchy pop tunes and a stellar cast. Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder delivers.
Returning to the Fringe for a second year, Kathy and Stella follows two best friends who host a true crime podcast together. When their favourite true crime author is murdered, the pair seize the opportunity to solve the crime, hoping it will be the step they need towards making a full time career out of their podcast. But as the girls get caught up in the rollercoaster of their success, can their friendship survive?
Bronté Barbé and Rebekah Hinds complement each other perfectly in the roles of Kathy and Stella, respectively. Barbe’s Kathy is anxious and insecure, while Hinds’ Stella is outspoken, confident and loud. Both are incredible vocalists and their voices blend seamlessly together throughout the show. While their two personalities may seem very different, both girls feel like their lives have stalled and that the podcast, and their longstanding friendship, are the only things they have left. Together Barbé and Hinds are enchanting to watch.
A special mention needs to go to the supporting cast of Jodie Jacobs, TJ Lloyd and Imelda Warren-Green who played their various roles with such commitment and energy. Onstage we also have Jacob Kohli and Sarah Pearson as ensemble, and a band of just four - a guitarist, two keyboards and a drummer.
Written and directed by Jon Brittain and with music by Matthew Lloyd, the production is all go go go as Kathy and Stella zoom about the stage on their desk chairs, taking us from Kathy’s mum’s garage to a police station and a pub as the story progresses.
The story itself is a bit bonkers but honestly, sometimes that’s OK. It certainly keeps you guessing throughout and the book has some hilarious one-liners. Lloyd’s music is catchy and brilliantly performed by the band on stage. I did struggle sometimes with the sound levels during the songs making it hard to hear all the lyrics but with quick turnarounds between shows at the Fringe it’s just one of those things.
After the Fringe, Kathy and Stella are taking their murder podcast on a short tour to venues in Bristol and Manchester, but I think I’d love to see the show expanded further in future. The ending comes too soon and even a wee extra 15 minutes would just help with the pacing in the later half where I felt it was a bit rushed.
It’s no wonder the show is selling out as it appeals to young and old alike. Kathy and Stella is witty and full of character but behind all the flashy musical numbers is a down-to-earth story about friendship, love, and finding your place in the world. And murder. Obviously.
