THE SCOTSMAN - August 1987
EDINBURGH FRINGE REVIEW


FEW performers combine the magnetism of a star, genuine sincerity and innocent charm as does Tom Robinson, and it is this combination that makes him so appealing to his audience. It also enables him to control expertly the mood of his show as it moves through an imaginative selection of songs, interspersed with stories and recitations. The passion of Surabya Johnny, the humour of Coward's Marvellous Party, the oddity of Warren Zevon's Roland the Thompson Gunner are all articulated splendidly, and even a letter home from a First World War soldier, which could easily seem mawkish, is read in a matter of fact way that makes it moving.

Mr Robinson is also naturally amusing, whether portraying the sexist man in Pub Hassle or making throw-away jokes, and an air of good humour dominates.

The show is described as "A Private View", which is most appropriate, since the audience is made to feel part of the proceedings. There is an up-dated, but equally effective, version of Glad to Be Gay among the songs by Mr Robinson, all sung in his wonderfully insistent voice. He is ably accompanied by Steve Laurie, Steve French and Steve Kettley, while Tony Heywood provides tight direction.