Big Tobacco’s Pinocchio offers an incredibly dark and twisted journey into what Pinocchio might have become involved with if the story had been written and set in today’s culture.

The storyline is loosely based on the original Fairytale. However, its focus is on the dark alter ego side of the characters apart from Jiminy Cricket, who desperately tries to stick to the narrative but becomes mislead at times.

I particularly liked the over seeing narrative and the “I couldn’t give a toss” description that it gave about the characters and what was taking place. Her absolutely took no prisoners.

During one particular drug induced “come down,” Pinocchio actually meets his “real” father, although he doesn’t believe him and who “wood.” Just bear in mind he was originally carved out of wood!

There’s nothing off limits in this version and is definitely an over 18’s only show. From sexual deviance, poking fun at religion, drug taking, and highlighting how society would potentially view Geppetto in today’s society ( a lonely, slightly weird man). Possibly not someone who should be in charge of a minor considering what happens.

The production has potential, but at times, it loses focus and becomes a bit “silly” to pull off good comedy. You have to know the timings perfectly. A couple of the erotic puppet scenes would benefit from being reduced to maximise the comedic effect. They have a place just slightly shorten them.

For more information about Big Tobacco’s Pinocchio, please use the link below.

Three Stars

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/big-tobacco-s-pinocchio

Cast and creatives

Brad Beideman, Brian Fitzgerald, Lyndsey Kempf, and Eli Lutsky.

Narrator

Jay Lutsky.

Music mixed by Jake Hess.