With so many powerful women forgotten to history The Queen is Mad takes a closer look at one such ruler. When outspoken Joanna unexpectedly becomes Queen of Aragon after the loss of her siblings, her disobedience worries her malicious father and social climbing husband, leading them to plot against her. Dubbed ‘Joanna La Loca’ (Joanna the Mad), this powerful performance is a beautiful retelling of a woman not mad, but indignant.
The scenes are brought to life with impeccable polish by a cast of three who perform the fantastically written musical score. The songs are intelligently crafted to transport the viewer to 16th-century Spain whilst remaining thought-provoking and relevant to a modern-day audience.
Maria Coyne as Joanna stirs emotion with an incredible high soprano singing voice, while Robert Finlayson and Brian Raftery enrage as conniving King Ferdinand and Philip the Handsome, while amusing as pompous court gossips. Their voices are all strong and complement the lyricism and score to create a triple threat that would not be amiss on a Broadway stage.
It is rare to see something in its infancy that will go on to national, or even international, success, but The Queen is Mad is thoroughly deserving of that Midas Touch this fringe.
The Queen is Mad, ZOO Southside, until 24 Aug (not 6, 13, 20), 4.15pm