Showing @ Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh until Mon 25 Aug (not 12) @ 16:30
Ernest and the Pale Moon is a gothic horror story in the tradition of Bram Stoker and Mary Shelly. The performance comes from the acclaimed theatre company Les Enfants Terrible, who have several fringe hits under their belt (The Trench and The Terrible Infants both received rave reviews). With Ernest and the Pale Moon they tick the horror boxes, presenting a dark story with eerie characters, tragic circumstances and deadly conclusions.
Ernest is a recluse who is transfixed by the moon and obsessed with the women who live in the building opposite. A series of unfortunate events drags Ernest out of his comfort zone and into a world of pain and horror. The set and costume design adds to the bleak nature of the story. Grey, dark and dusty tones set the mood and are emphasised by the live accompaniment of cello and accordion. Happiness is definitely not present, but emotion and diversity is evident in the talented performers.
Despite the darkness, the performance is an enjoyable one. Ernest’s plight does feel somewhat predicable, however the dusty and intricate set, along with chilling and moody music, make for an interesting piece of horror theatre.