Pilgrim Shadow

In the future, in a galaxy far, far away, criminals Gary and Tyler have just stolen a spaceship off Dodgy Pete leading to the biggest adventure of their lives, and of the whole of the twenty-third century. Steve Jordan’s comedy Pilgrim Shadow, performed as part of the Camden Fringe this August, brings together warp speed and witty one-liners in ways that are, well, out of this world.

According to the galactic annals of ancient history and countless tales told by old wives and aliens alike, the story of legendary figure Tim Shadow and his illusive treasure-trove El Dorado has gripped the imaginations of all human beings of outer space for thousands of years. Companions Tyler and Gary are no different; on the run from the space syndicate, these two criminals turn treasure seekers when they end up in possession of Pilgrim’s legendary ship and decided to go on a hunt to find his long-lost treasure.

Tyler and Gary, like any comedy or criminal duo are a colourful combination of contrasts. Gary (played by Adam Joselyn) is naïve where Tyler (Cliff Chapman) is cynical; it is their constant repartee which carries the play forward, and their wavering relationship that adds a dramatic and comedic intensity to the scenes.

Overall however, Steve Jordan’s comedy is a little hit-and-miss. Fresh, unexpected lines ring out across the room often but it is the tired tried-and-tested hyperbolic similes and extended metaphors that Jordan employs most frequently. These mostly render the show a little stale and predictable – over-exaggeration can heighten comedic elements but can also mean delivery rarely veers from over-stated. Yet the characters and dialogue are still clearly bursting with energy, and with such a fast-paced script, the ambitious storyline works well in only an hour.

Pilgrim Shadow is a little bit silly and a little bit ridiculous, but it is supposed to be. The far fetched plot and futuristic feel are elements that risk over-complication or a confusing plot, but this isn’t the case for Pilgrim Shadow which brings itself constantly back down to earth with a few laughs and a lot of fun along the way.

Pilgrim Shadow is playing at the Tristan Bates Theatre as a part of the Camden Fringe until 3 August. For more information and tickets please see the Camden Fringe website.