Michael Cox reviews a production that is 'consistently funny with a touch of pathos'.
Sean and Daro Flake It ‘Til They Make It makes a welcome return to the Traverse stage, having previously played last spring. Robert Softley Gale’s production of Laurie Motherwell’s script is a hoot from start to finish: consistently funny with a touch of pathos.
Sean and Daro are best mates—childhood pals who haven’t seen much of each other since Sean left for uni. Sean’s mum has died and he’s dropped out of school—life is looking bleak. But Daro has a plan, an idea that will get them out of financial problems and give them a chance to reconnect: to run an ice cream van together.
The truth of the matter is that the production hinges on the performances, and it is here that Gale’s production hits its stride: Sean Connor (Sean) and Cameron Fulton (Daro) are both tremendous, having a wonderful camaraderie with each other that is all but impossible to not be charmed by. They have an easy time with each other, playing Motherwell’s language with the ease of friendly patter.
And yet, the play stumbles every time the plot attempts to take over. Our heroes find themselves in several scrapes, most of which come across as contrived—sometimes even contrary to the characters themselves. Social commentary is made throughout, most of which feels forced and unnecessary.
But when it comes back to the lads being themselves, the play returns to being a pleasure. Sean and Daro, in the end, is all about the importance of friendship and being within a community. When it’s allowed to simply be that, it’s a winner.
Sean & Daro Flake It ‘Til They Make It performs in the Traverse One space at the Traverse Theatre as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Performances are at alternative times until Sunday Aug 20th. Image by Mihaela Bodlovic.
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