The Reunion at C ARTS review
This Fringe, Gagglehouse Theatre are debuting their new family comedy-drama The Reunion. New graduate MacKenzie (Harry Foyle) has spent his entire university career hiding his working-class upbringing- joining the hockey team, hiding his scholarship and pretending he went to Eton. When his dad (Jonny Tulloch) shows up to his graduation ceremony with two Oasis tickets in hand, the pair embark on a hitchhiking road trip to Edinburgh that forces them to face uncomfortable truths and maybe even reconnect?
From the offset, the class differences between our leading characters are apparent. They clash over topics including UK politics, 'chav' culture and the treatment of the working class. However, the script does well to balance the characters- in one scene you might be sympathising with Mac, in the next you’re understanding the anguish his father is feeling towards him. Furthermore, the direction of the show tells a complex story of conflict between two men without resorting to excessive shouting. This really grounds the show and makes it feel far more of a realistic family conflict rooted in betrayal and cultural differences. Though each character absolutely has their flaws and wrongdoings, the direction of the show cleverly balances the two men, rather than landing on the side of one being ‘in the wrong’ to a greater degree.
Though the two male leads were incredibly strong performers, a particular mention needs to go to Megan Porter who played Mac’s mother Angie, as well as several of the characters the duo met on their road trip. These characters are unique and fun additions to each scene, with so much variety it’s easy to forget that they are all played by the same actor. These supporting characters accentuate their scenes rather than overshadowing the core plotline, and provide a fun range of different dynamics throughout the story. The narrative was well-paced, making the most of every minute of their runtime, with a steady balance of comedy and drama.
The Reunion is a fresh and timely piece of theatre, and a real hidden gem of this year's Fringe. If you're looking to support new local talent, this is the show to see.
The Reunion plays at studio at C ARTS (Venue 6) until August 30th.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Written by Jacqueline for Theatre and Tonic, August 2026.