This is a tale both sordid and cautionary. The story of two young lovers and the temptations than can befall those who are blessed with more than their fair share of, ummm, equipment. The story revolves around Chauntecleer, the cocky rooster, and pertelotte, the delectable young hen. It also concerns the lass Nell and her husband the farmer Nod, but more of them anon.
The first part of the tale gives us the deflowering of pertelotte. After this act, she demands a better performance from the cock and also fidelity. With practice, they eventually turn what was a quick wa-hey! into a tantric effort that is the talk of the farmyard.
Well, this gets young Nell very hot under the collar as Nod is just not able to satisfy her (for a number of very sick reasons which I will not relate). Nell tempts the vain and haughty Chaunticleer but is seen by Pertelotte who exacts her revenge is a most thorough way.
The story is told by two actors who bound about the stage as the chickens or their human counterparts, while telling both the tale above as well as relating pertinent parts of the backstory which help us understand the characters and their motives. the language used is very flowery and, while hard to get into at first, becomes very much part of the characters as depicted.
The story is raunchy and earthy and there is a lot of foul language and simulated sex scenes (both human and….well you get the picture). the audience laughed most at the rude bits (surprise), and there is so much enjoyment in this tale that the hour just flies by.
Excellent but wordy tale is a must see for the festival.
Visit the Fringe website for booking details.