“Bring me the head of Jokanaan,” cries Salome, daughter of Queen Herodias in Wilde’s controversial classic Salome. Having performed the dance of the seven veils for Herod, the legendary temptress demands bloody payment.
Performed as written in one act in the 18th Century Church of St Patrick. just off the Royal Mile, Alton Fringe Theatre’s modest production benefits enormously from the stunning interior. Showing wise restraint in costumes and use of sound, the performance draws mythic energy from the marblesque walls, vast ceiling and truly palatial surroundings and there’s never any doubt that you’re seeing something special.
This intimate and traditional production is held together by strong performances from the key players. Chris Chappell is fun as the sniping Queen Herodias, and with the bulk of Wilde’s elegant lines and the most demanding role as Herod Antipas, Tim Guilding does very well, but it’s Jo Foulkes’s marvelous Salome who dominates the show.
In a well considered performance that never becomes arch or knowing, Ms Foulkes sensitively conveys Salome’s youth and confused emotions, without overplaying her lustful obsession. The famous dance of the seven veils, accompanied by a burst of modernist dance music and performed with energy around the altar is at once sensual and daring, and a stunning highlight.
A quality production in a marvelously atmospheric venue makes this an enjoyable Edinburgh debut for Alton Fringe Theatre and a must for lovers of Wilde.
4/5 
Scott McKellar
