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Review: Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024 – Athens of the North

By Dominic Corr on August 9, 2024

Created by Mark Hannah

Directed by Fraser Scott

Review by Eve Nugent

Hibernian Supporters Club: Tickets

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Performing in the iconic Edinburgh Hibernian Supporters Club, a sequestered pub in Sunnyside, Mark Hannah shines in his original one-man show Athens of the North. Hidden upstairs in the quiet pub, with a bar behind the stage, this is the perfect venue to avoid the overcrowded city centre. Upbeat indie music helps the audience to their seats, ending as a cold light emerges on Hannah sitting upstage.

A definite Fringe must-see, the show is a poignant episodic monologue which celebrates Edinburgh and its people. Hannah embodies three distinct characters, opening with struggling single-parent Alan, driving to St Giles Cathedral. Next is love-struck Liam, in search of his holiday romance. Finally, ageing Maureen reminisces about her past. Each character interacts uniquely with the city, sharing untold stories of ordinary life. Hannah thus explores the complexities and beauty of human nature, using his magic ability to suddenly switch from buoyant banter to raw, dark emotion.

This authentic performance is wholly outstanding. Hannah's impressive storytelling skills had each audience member hanging off every word for 55 minutes. He lucidly communicates a powerful message about one's intertwined connection to one's past, present, and future in this stunning poetic tribute to the Athens of the North.

A Fringe Must-See

Athens of the North runs at the Hibernina Supporters Club, Edinburgh, until August 12th.
Running time - Fifty-five minutes without an interval

Review by Even Nugent (contact@corrblimey.uk)

An undergraduate French student at the University of Edinburgh, Eve has a diverse interest in theatre and performance. Eve's theatrical focus has recently broadened into writing and directing, for instance with her modern Othello adaptation for the University's Shakespeare Company. Her creative attention stretches also to classical music, as she plays the flute, piano and guitar with equal fervour. She thus looks forward to watching whatever the Fringe has to offer, irrespective of genre!