Edinburgh Festival 1994: And so to behead . . .

ONE of our most dysfunctional monarchs doles out marital guidance to the Prince of Wales in the Natural Theatre Company's latest flight of fancy dress, Henry VIII - Diary of a Serial Killer: a pacey, experimental piece in which the myths about the unfortunate Mrs Tudors are exploded in the name of slapstick. This acclaimed company made its name with delicious characterisations, off-the-wall plots, catchy musical numbers and an ability to get everyone into the party spirit. In Scarlatti's Wedding (1991), they got the audience to put on masks and jump out from under their seats shouting 'Surprise, surprise]'. So wallflowers take heed: one of the highlights of this show is a version of Blind Date hosted by Catherine Howard. (Assembly Rooms, 031-226 2428, 15 Aug-3 Sept.)

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