Reviewed by: Fringefeed
Review by Linda Smith | 09 February 2019

The Uncertainty Principle is a unique show that introduces a variety of science concepts in a relatable way to its audience.

Hosted by the likeable Taryn and Ben, the show is the beginning of a series of podcasts that will continue after the live Fringe performances conclude.

The show began with a piece that explained how DNA testing companies worked, including where they got their sampling from and how accurate their findings really were.

Both Taryn and Ben had previously sent their saliva samples to be tested, and half way through the show their results were presented and read out to the audience.

Taryn found some unexpected results such as having 10% Finnish ancestry, and her testing included how likely she was to be able to carry a musical pitch and enjoy the taste of coriander.

Ben however, had his test returned as his cheek cells did not include enough DNA for testing, a piece of quite interesting information.

Following this, a quantum mechanic from UWA joined them at their scientific desk and used simple analogies to explain how he was working with crystals and quantum physics to convert energy in order to build a giant quantum computer, an activity that has invited emails from lots of interesting theorists on the ether of the quantum soul and the like.

The show was well paced, with just enough information to elucidate but not too much to overwhelm. Though heavily scripted, the jokes still elicited laughter.

The presentation was carefully planned and did not rely on chance or audience participation so had a professional feel, even if it did come across a bit like an adult version of an ABC kids’ science show.

Named after an actual Principle of quantum mechanics, the title is cleverly used to create an interest in a subject many people would like to know more about but find difficult to delve into.

This show sets up many scientific ideas and theories for discussion and provides a simple introduction to ideas that affect us in our daily lives, whether we are aware of them or not.