Review: The Staircase: An Evening with David Rudolf (rating 5/5)
If the documentary series The Staircase (currently popular on Netflix) held you captivated for all 13 episodes, then this hour-long Fringe show is for you.
This is a presentation of various topics included in the documentary and relevant to the case of Michael Peterson – twice tried for the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen Peterson.
David Rudolf, who was Peterson’s lawyer during the first trial and has remained heavily involved ever since, speaks eloquently and knowledgeably about his subject matter and includes intriguing crime scene photos, a computerised recreation of the Peterson house, and clips of pivotal moments in the trial.
It is essential to have watched the documentary as there is no summary of events; you are expected to know your stuff. Rudolf dives straight into theories and presents what could be regarded as something outlandish (the owl theory) as completely reasonable and believable. One audience member confessed to having switched from guilty to innocent during Rudolf’s talk.
There is plenty of time for questions afterwards and all are answered fairly and with thought. This show is for those who watched the documentary and wanted more, for those interested in true crime and forensics, and stands out as something curious amongst the multiple comedy and topical shows that dominate the Edinburgh Fringe.
The Stand’s New Town Theatre, Grand Hall, Aug 7-10
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