Fringe review: THE 80s MOVIE MIXTAPE, theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall

One forgets how many iconic songs came from movies in the 80s and this fun celebratory show, The 80s Movie Mixtape, does exactly what it promises with some upbeat renditions of those soundtracks by a strong band of four and two singers.

None of the performers look old enough to have seen the movies they describe first time round but the audience certainly did and created a retro party atmosphere. They hardly needed any encouragement to stand, sway and sing along to each song.

The fast paced concert from the decade covered films including Back to the Future, Dirty Dancing, Footloose, Fame, The NeverEnding Story, the less well known Electric Dreams, Top Gun, Mannequin, Labyrinth, The Breakfast Club, and Flashdance.

It therefore include the songs ‘Don't You (Forget About Me’, ‘Electric Dreams’, ‘What a Feeling’, ‘(I’ve had) The Time of my Life’, ‘Take my Breath Away’, ‘Dance Magic’, ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now’, and ‘The Power of Love’, as well as iconic film theme songs. Every one of them instantly recognisable. We'll leave you to recall which song came from which movie - forty years on, many of the songs are better remembered than the films!

They have the venue rocking with a singing, swaying, and dancing audience, giving it a party atmosphere with the unmistakable 80s sound, delivered with bags of energy and affection for the songs .

This was a time that was hopeful, aspirational, and romantic, and the music reflects that, and a perfect antidote to the way some comics here present the world today (Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe). It's why we love the Fringe , you are taken from one world to another in a matter of a few steps.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Nick Wayne

The 80s Movie Mixtape plays at Edinburgh Festival Fringe until 23 August, with further info here.