Could be worse

“A Number,” written by British playwright Caryl Churchill, is a fable of a flawed father and several men who are either his sons or clones of them. (When it premiered in London in 2002, the lead roles went to Michael Gambon and Daniel Craig.) Here, as the sons, Clarence Wethern delivers three solid, authentic performances. The father is a more emotionally demanding role, and Gabriele Angieri doesn’t fully stick the landing, as if someone — director, actor, both? — didn’t fully take time to understand what makes the complex, contradictory character tick. Whoever cloned this show didn’t quite replicate its emotional heart.

Presented by W.A.S. Productions at Phoenix Theater; 5:30 p.m. Aug. 8, 8:30 p.m. Aug. 10, 4 p.m. Aug. 11

Still trying to decide what to see? Check out all our Fringe reviews at twincities.com/tag/fringe-festival, with each show rated on a scale of Must See, Worth Considering, Could Be Worse or You Can Skip.

The Minnesota Fringe Festival is presenting more than 100 hourlong stage acts from Aug. 1–11 around Minneapolis. Visit MinnesotaFringe.org for ticket and show information.

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