Low Down

Professor Trevelyan sets out to prove the Turing Test, but his alcoholism and laziness prevents him from succeding without resorting to trickery.

Review

The Turing Test is an odd premise for an opera - no traditionally grand quests or lasciviously amorous suitors, instead university lecturer, Professor Trevelyan is trying to prove the Turing Test -which involves creating a computer that can talk and think for itself.

This expertly performed show by the Edinburgh Studio Opera is an hour-long original work composed by Julian Wagstaff. 

The high ceilinged space of Augustine’s Sanctuary has been covered with austere white flooring, and intricate diagrams of circuits and computer chips, which effectively convey the feel of a laboratory.

Accompanied by a full orchestra, there are only four characters in the opera, which suits the small stage, and makes this as naturalistic as an opera can be! Julian Guidera is excellent as the alcoholic and duplicitous Professor Trevelyan and his student Stephanie, performed by Georgia Knower is his match in both personality and voice. 

There is clearly a great following for opera at the Edinburgh Fringe, as the show was sold out on only its second night, and looked pretty booked up for the rest of its short run. So, if you want to see this unusual and interesting show - better grab your tickets now.

Reviewed by AB 16/08/07

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