Kirsty Mann blends horror and humour as she performs her award-winning show, Corpse, at this year’s Adelaide Fringe. Based on a true story, the comedian transports audiences into her very own ghost story. But hey, at least she sees the funny side of the situation (Image: Jennifer Forward-Hayter)
By Amelia Hegarty | @amelialhegarty
We’ve all been there before, right?
That sensation that something isn’t right. Feeling the cold patch that always stays in the same spot in your house. Hearing weird noises at night.
You rationalise that it is nothing. Maybe it is the wind. It is certainly not a ghost. It couldn’t be… could it?
This is an experience Kirsty Mann is all too familiar with, and one she is eager to tell.
Corpse returns to Adelaide, following a tour around Europe and shows at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Interweaving comedy and horror, Corpse leaves both believers and critics with goosebumps, high on adrenaline and nervously laughing until the end.
Mann effectively transports audiences all the way to her little home back in the United Kingdom through low lighting, the creation of shadows, loud sound effects and a natural ability for storytelling.
With the audience seated intimately at the Courtyard of Curiosities, at least you are not alone.
Huddled with your friend or family member, you giggle as tensions rise and move closer as the lights darken and all sound stops.
For those attending this show solo, do not let this deter you!
Think of this as a comedy show about a ghost story that is only scary at times.
In truth, Mann’s humour shines throughout the performance, whether providing context, an accent or an easy smile.
The only criticism I could have for this show is that I wish it had been longer because I truly left wanting more.
I could not recommend more for horror-movie fanatics, comedy lovers and potentially, the odd Disney fan (all will be revealed), to find their way to Mann’s Corpse this Fringe season.
Corpse runs until Sunday, March 15, with only one show left.
Find Kirsty Mann at The Gallery in The Courtyard of Curiosities at the Migration Museum. Tickets are available here.
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