Winnipeg Sun

July 20, 2009

Bloodless: The Trial of Burke and Hare

Desperate times call for desperate measures. At least, that's the reasoning behind this string of murders.

After many failed attempts to make money, two penniless friends named Burke and Hare finally find an idea that works: Selling dead bodies for scientific research. But instead of going through the time and effort it takes to dig up the newly deceased, they decide to make their own corpses. Things go well as the pair start murdering and selling bodies on a daily basis — but soon enough their unlawful misdeeds get discovered.

This dark musical about a bad plan gone awry is fast-paced and exciting. The story smoothly mixes present-day court scenes with hilarious flashbacks. The characters, although full of flaws and immoral intentions, grow on you and quickly become lovable. And despite the unpleasant subject matter of the songs, they were catchy and fun.

All in all, a phenomenal blend of comedy and gruesome tragedy.

****

—Janet Adamana