The Underground Monk Show is about to unleash its full force upon the unsuspecting crowds at Assembly George Square Gardens – and it's going to be an unforgettable experience. This late-night spectacle has been building a devoted cult following at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, but don't let its grassroots roots fool you – this show is set to scale new heights.
Co-creator John Norris describes the show as 'difficult to define, even for us', which only adds to its enigmatic allure. The premise? A group of robed monks experience spiritual awakenings triggered by a mystical water source that brings their visions to life – it's like nothing you've ever seen before. Performances are a kaleidoscope of flashbacks, dream sequences, and interdimensional portals, with the monks seamlessly weaving in and out of the audience, creating an electrifying mix of cohesion and comical tension.
The show's unorthodox roots date back to LA, where it began as 'Monks and Nuns', a loose collective of performers dressed in monk attire without a clear agenda. Co-director Corey Podell reveals that John Norris was the driving force behind transforming this impromptu gathering into the polished production we see today – one that's gained backing from London's prestigious Soho Theatre.
The ensemble cast is an eclectic mix of talented performers from various artistic disciplines, including Claire Woolner, who's brought her solo show 'A Retrospection' to the Fringe; Max Baumgarten, a founding member of experimental improv group Wet the Hippo; and D Marcucci, who wowed audiences last year with 'Lady Magic'. And if that's not enough, Bill O’Neill, nominated for Edinburgh's best comedy newcomer in 2023, is set to join the cast for its London run at Soho Theatre in January.
Co-creator John Norris highlights the diverse backgrounds of his performers – a veritable melting pot of clowning, theatre, improv, dance, and performance art. This potent blend ensures each performance is as unpredictable as it is mesmerising, with the cast's strong chemistry allowing them to challenge each other creatively and keep the show fresh and alive.
Despite moving to a larger space, Norris is committed to preserving the intimate, unhinged energy that defined its earlier iterations. By amplifying other elements of the show, he hopes to create an unforgettable experience that still deeply connects with its audience – whatever the venue.