EDINBURGH 2010: BWW Reviews: HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH (C Plaza)

This is a nicely-produced version of the cult classic Hedwig and the Angry Inch, which plays with and subverts the gender norms more than usual. You know those roles that are usually played by a man? A woman plays them here. Sometimes. And vice versa. And as you listen to the vocals of the trans woman Hedwig and her ex-drag queen husband you'll end up being thoroughly confused about who's a "real" woman and who's a "real" man, which is, of course, entirely the point.

Emily Simpson, in the role of Hedwig on the night I attended, has powerful vocals but her acting left a little to be desired as she took time to ease into the character. Still, carrying a show like that is tough work, and she gradually enticed the audience into her world. The sound levels, as in many venues so far this year, needed some attention; the excellent live band occasionally drowned out the lyrics.

Still, a fascinating take on the show - definitely worth seeing.

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