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★★★★★
Comedian, writer and actor Liz Coin is back at the Edinburgh Fringe this year with the comedy and theatre fusion show Lizzy Sunshine. Told through the eyes of Coin’s younger self, the piece centres on the principal character Lizzy Sunshine, who is having to perform a two-person show alone, after her brother didn’t turn up. Jamie will be here soon, but until then, the audience is invited into this sunny world, filled with sketch comedy, clown, audience participation and Lizzy’s innermost thoughts backstage.
Power in positivity
In the Coorie room at Gilded Balloon, positivity rules and Coin in character as Lizzy Sunshine involves the audience from the minute the performance begins. The performer really knows how to communicate with spectators and make them feel comfortable to partake, with members of the audience acting as understudies in Jamie’s absence. Whilst this is a comedy show, it is very much a piece for theatre kids, with references to Annie, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and community theatre. I have honestly never been to an Edinburgh Fringe show before where the room just felt like a bunch of friends willing for the character to do well and it’s all down to the amount of heart that Coin brings to Lizzy Sunshine.
Heartfelt and deeply personal
Without giving away any spoilers, this is a show that has many unexpected layers and is really clever. The comedy draws you in, but it is the amount of personal truth to the writing which will resonate the most. Lizzy Sunshine is Coin’s narrative but the underlying themes of the piece will have universal impact and stay with audiences long after the 55-minute running time.
The sun will come out tomorrow thanks to Liz Coin
Performers like Liz Coin are what the Edinburgh Fringe is all about. A masterful creative having the space to tell a hilarious, unique and highly impactful story, that has the power to start conversations. Her high energy and ability to engage an audience makes this a truly standout show of this year’s Fringe. You can catch Lizzy Sunshine at Coorie at Gilded Balloon Patter House (venue 24) until 31st August (not 18th and 24th). Performances start daily at 14:20, with tickets available via the festival’s website.
*My ticket for Lizzy Sunshine was gifted in exchange for an unbiased review.
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