Review: Three Chickens Confront Existence, Edfringe

It’s a question as old as time: what came first, the chicken or the egg? While Three Chickens Confront Existence never provides a definitive answer, it invites you to mull over deeper philosophical questions in a whimsical way. 

A large cage is positioned in the centre of the stage, its bars separating three broiler chickens cooped up inside. The Belly Button at Underbelly Cowgate is a perfectly snug venue, and the space echoes the claustrophobic feel of the enclosure. With a black curtain behind the cage, the set remains plain to balance the enormous and exceptional costumes. Designed by Sasha Richter, the feathered suits are fantastic.

A red chicken named Reginald (Eric Kirchberger) is a mathematician and spends most of the play calculating their exact date of death. With the most impressive vocabulary I’ve ever heard, Reginald is hilariously pragmatic. Offering a sharp contrast is Helen (Audrey Rapoport), a white hen who is ridiculously positive and practices gratitude daily. Bronseman (Matthew DiLoreto), the leader of the group – or so he likes to think – is sharp and witty, and is the sane one of the three. 

Like the title suggests, the majority of their conversations involve contemplating their existence. They argue, play silly games and meditate. There are nods to philosophical theory, but the funniest reference is to Shakespeare, where Helen and Reginald transform into Machiavellian villains, plotting to steal Bronseman’s blue feather. 

When the other two chickens are asleep, Helen speaks directly to the audience about her past. A retired egg layer, she reveals that she named each of her eggs as they were taken away from her. A spotlight illuminates her face, highlighting every expression and giving the audience a quiet, reflective moment that contrasts with the earlier frivolity. It’s enough to make even the staunchest of meat-eaters consider vegetarianism. Rapoport’s acting is impressive, and this scene is undoubtedly the standout of the show.

To pass the time, the chickens devise a story of creation, inspiring other chickens in their block. The scene is mostly amusing, though some jokes fall flat. The script contains witty elements but drags during the middle and struggles to define itself. It’s neither particularly political nor particularly profound, and the few laughs don’t carry it as a straight comedy.  While some moments feel stagnant, the cast’s enthusiasm helps the storytelling. Three Chickens Confront Existence is a promising idea, just a few feathers short of fully hatching.

Written & Produced by Bill Schaumberg
Costumes by Sasha Richter

Three Chickens Confront Existence runs at the Underbelly Cowgate until Sunday 24 August.