Luke Townson’s one-man performance in Green Tea tells the story of Reverend Mister Jennings tormented for many years by an evil spirit. Destroying his life, career, and mental stability. Turning him into a recluse.

Townson transitions smoothly between each character, changing accents and pitch with ease never confusing any of the roles. Allowing the audience to follow the storyline. His command of the stage never falters and the rich, lengthy unfaltering dialogue is an impressive performance.

Long and descriptive conversations take place between the Reverend and his philosophical physician Dr. Martin Hesselius. The Reverend uses their meetings to confide in him the torment and terror that the spirit is creating and how far into the depths of despair he is falling into.

The Paradise Vaults alcove Theatre space where Townson performs has an eerie atmosphere. Adding depth to the already macabre play. I would have liked to hear a storm raging around outside to bring another edge to the gothic storyline. Envisaging the elements matching the power of the spirit.

At 110 minutes it’s slightly longer than a typical Edinburgh Fringe play and perhaps shortening the performance to fit that length would have added more gothic mystery to the storyline. It certainly has great potential to become a five-star play.

For more information about this production please visit the link below.

Four Stars.

https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/green-tea

https://edinburghfestival.datathistle.com/event/2184982-green-tea/