Wednesday 15 November 2017
Cabaret (UK Tour), Edinburgh Playhouse | Review
Cabaret (UK Tour)
Edinburgh Playhouse
Reviewed on Tuesday 14th November 2017 by Liv Ancell
★★★★★
With the two headliners of this show – Will Young and Louise Redknapp - being bona-fide British primetime celebrities and regular tabloid fodder, its no wonder that Edinburgh turned out in force to see Cabaret, director Rufus Norris’ latest show.
While Louise and Will may have been the initial draw for some, they will have no doubt left the theatre feeling utterly bowled over by the timeless storyline, endearing characters, and unbeatable music of Cabaret.
What a test of stamina this show is for all involved! The frantically pulsating and contorting cast whirl around the stage at an alarming rate. The choreography was a level above anything else I’ve seen in recent times – the cast members pulled off gruelling moves which were positively acrobatic and perfectly timed.
Belting out Cabaret’s signature songs must be a challenging task; this musical feat was made even more impressive while simultaneously cartwheeling, gyrating, prancing and frolicking. Such sophisticated choreography from Javier du Frutos – especially in Wilkommen and The Money Song – really reinforced this show’s status as world-class.
Louise Redknapp gave everything to this performance, and the volumes to her voice will be sure to silence anybody who may have been skeptical about whether her popstar voice would survive a stage performance. From charming to sultry, to showgirl and seductive, her singing was a complete triumph. Charles Hagerty played Clifford Bradshaw wonderfully; embodying the morally righteous and somewhat naïve American author. His acting was second to none and he subtly conveyed an impressive range of emotions on stage.
This being said, Will Young is just in a class of his own. He wears the garb of the inimitable Emcee with utter brilliance. With incredible expression and by masterful voice control, Will gave the ultimate portrayal of the quirky and coquettish clown of the Berlin cabaret scene. His Emcee was equal parts playful and dark, and his German accent and sing-song voice was perfectly measured.
The raciness and nudity in the show was perfectly balanced by a more despairing and serious storyline. Nazi undercurrents perfectly underpinned the storyline, with the rising prejudice of the time tastefully portrayed and immortalised in this production. The ever endearing Herr Shultz – our patient and adorable Jewish man – was a stand-out character, and Linal Haft gave a commendable performance in this crucial role. His companion, Fraulein Kost (Basienka Blake) was equally commanding, and she too gave a convincing performance, not breaking her accent even during song.
The final scene – which I won’t give away – was sad and beautiful. The high tempo energy of Cabaret couldn’t keep going forever, and it left viewers with a lesson in history to remember. This show is incredible; it will invoke all sorts of emotions, including wonder, amazement and awe. I’d highly recommend going along if it comes to a theatre near you next; it’s absolutely unmissable!
Cabaret is at the Edinburgh Playhouse until November 18th before continuing its tour.
Photo credit: Pamela Raith
Monday 13 November 2017
Saint George and the Dragon, National Theatre | Review
Saint George and the Dragon
Olivier Theatre, National Theatre
Reviewed on Friday 10th November 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
The National Theatre's current production of Saint George and the Dragon is a modern and ambitious twist on the traditional folk tale of Saint George the dragon-slayer. Described as "a folk tale for an uneasy nation" this production time travels from the medieval times all the way to the current day and questions whether England is losing it's traditional values and whether change is always positive.
Rory Mullarkey's play has faults and drags a little but its interesting and humourous throughout and works extremely well in the space of the Olivier theatre.
As George himself, John Heffernan is Shakespearean, larger than life, witty and charming- perfect for the role. A particularly funny moment is when he disguises himself as 'Ian' in the 2017 world, raising the question of how much we're willing to change to fit in. The character is interesting because as those around him change, he stays the same and becomes somewhat innocent in nature. This transition from the bold hero, to almost childlike is an interesting watch and the idea that distant 'heros' aren't always what the world needs is especially relevant now when it's being revealed that many Hollywood idol's are not the people we should be looking up to at all.
Julian Bleach is the perfect contrast as the sinister but witty Dragon; his portrayal is fantastically strong and gave me major child-catcher vibes in the second act. As the feisty, voice of reason heroine, Elsa, Amaka Okafor is brilliantly cast.
This show wouldn't be what it is without Rae Smith's outstanding set design which transitions along with the characters seamlessly and adds a simple but strong dimension to the play. From the green fields of medieval England to the factory filled London during the industrial revolution, each set is instantly recognisable. Whilst extremely fitting for the time period, the sets also have a humourous aspect such as the way smoke puffs out of the factories. Accompanied by the great, atmospheric lighting by Bruno Poet we are transported through the history of England.
Overall I don't think this play will be to everyone's taste and it could certainly be trimmed down for a smoother flow but it's definitely interesting and I enjoy how it raises some important and relevant questions whilst still remaining humourous. Its genuinely funny and entertaining and Rory Mullarkey has done a great job of reinventing a traditional tale.
Wednesday 8 November 2017
Cilla (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Cilla (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 7th November 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
I have to admit, unlike many, I didn't grow up with Cilla Black. I knew a few of her hit songs but until an hour before seeing the show, had never seen an episode of Blind Dates so despite having heard good things, I was a little dubious as to whether this would be the show for me. I'm pleased to report that my doubts were uncalled for, as the show is spectacular.
This new production chronicles the Merseyside National Treasure's rise to fame accompanied by the hits of not only Cilla herself, but the other bands of the time. This is a unique take on the jukebox formula which instantly won over the audience of older people reliving the hits they grew up with and the younger generations alike.
Whilst many jukebox musicals are an excuse to perform hit songs with little storytelling, Cilla has Jeff Pope's stellar book to accompany it. This allows us to become invested in the show and performances rather than just waiting for the next song. With moments of drama, light and shade, there's really something for everyone and the show provides a well rounded theatrical experience with a depth not often seen in jukebox musicals.
As the lead, Kara Lily Hayworth becomes the Liverpool lady and heart of the show in a faultless performance from start to finish. Expertly embodying Cilla's iconic speaking voice as well as her vocally tough songs, Kara becomes Cilla and has the audience wrapped around her finger from start to finish. Her performance of the demanding role is certainly a memorable one and I can't commend her more highly for her stunning portrayal.
The Beatles and their manager Brian Epstein (Andrew Lancel) feature majorly in the show and give wonderful and iconic performances. The costumes, voices and mannerisms of each person are done to a T and you almost forget you're watching a tribute to these artists and not them live in the flesh!
As Cilla's devoted companion, Carl Au gives a charming performance throughout. His vocal performances are worth the wait when in act two he sings a delightful rendition of 'A Taste of Honey' overall he is endearing and a joy to watch.
The supporting cast are wonderful, especially Cilla's parents who deliver some hilarious one-liners throughout. Mention must also be made of the set design by Gary McCann which is striking and seamless in moving us from the Merseyside Club to Abbey Road to the London Palladium just to name a few.
Cilla Black was a woman of the people's hearts and a National Treasure who will always be remembered for her stunning voice, wit and charm. This musical does the perfect job of remembering her and chronicling her life in a glitzy and exciting but truthful way. Whether you're a massive Cilla fan or not, this show will certainly provide fantastic viewing!
Cilla runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until November 11th before continuing its tour.
Monday 6 November 2017
Opera: Passion, Power and Politics, Victoria and Albert Museum | Review
Opera: Passion, Power and Politics (Exhibition)
Victoria and Albert Museum
Reviewed on Sunday 5th November 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
Opera: Passion, Power and Politics is a vast and exhilarating exhibition which explores the complex and beautiful history of opera as well as its power to affect us all. In collaboration with the Royal Opera House, the exhibition examines seven operas both in the context of the composer's lives and the cities and countries they were originally performed in (the only exception is the 1861 Paris production of Wagner's Tannhäuser.) The final room takes us into the modern day with a selection of operas premiered in the last seventy or so years.
The exhibition is extravagant and immersive; visitors are supplied with headsets which play pieces to accompany the route which evoke both intellectual and visceral feelings. Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed the entire exhibition and the accompanying music, I find it somewhat odd that the actual musical element is made optional, although there are so many factors which go into making an opera great, the music is certainly the most crucial.
Wandering around the exhibition space it's amazing to see how opera changed so much whilst keeping its original roots. The displays become more and more lavish, with stunning costumes and other objects becoming grander as we get further in. The political climate and opera have always been thoroughly linked and it is particularly striking to see the sudden return to minimalism during the Soviet Modernism movement when Shostakovich's Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk was suppressed in 1936 and to be taken literally to the battlefield when the music is replaced with the sound of distant gunfire as we move to study Verdi's Nabucco.
This is overall a remarkable exhibition, which like the Opera itself, really needs to be seen and heard to truly be appreciated. The amount of information displayed is overwhelming but exciting throughout and both Opera lovers and Opera newbies are sure to learn something interesting. Visually experiencing the humanity and social relevance of the seven pieces is moving and compelling and I highly recommend you go and experience it yourself.
Opera: Passion, Power and Politics is on display at the Victoria and Albert museum until February 25th 2018.
The exhibition is extravagant and immersive; visitors are supplied with headsets which play pieces to accompany the route which evoke both intellectual and visceral feelings. Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed the entire exhibition and the accompanying music, I find it somewhat odd that the actual musical element is made optional, although there are so many factors which go into making an opera great, the music is certainly the most crucial.
Wandering around the exhibition space it's amazing to see how opera changed so much whilst keeping its original roots. The displays become more and more lavish, with stunning costumes and other objects becoming grander as we get further in. The political climate and opera have always been thoroughly linked and it is particularly striking to see the sudden return to minimalism during the Soviet Modernism movement when Shostakovich's Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk was suppressed in 1936 and to be taken literally to the battlefield when the music is replaced with the sound of distant gunfire as we move to study Verdi's Nabucco.
This is overall a remarkable exhibition, which like the Opera itself, really needs to be seen and heard to truly be appreciated. The amount of information displayed is overwhelming but exciting throughout and both Opera lovers and Opera newbies are sure to learn something interesting. Visually experiencing the humanity and social relevance of the seven pieces is moving and compelling and I highly recommend you go and experience it yourself.
Opera: Passion, Power and Politics is on display at the Victoria and Albert museum until February 25th 2018.
Friday 3 November 2017
Macbeth, Bussey Building | Review
Macbeth
Bussey Building
Reviewed on Thursday 2nd November 2017 by Alessandra Cenni
★★★
Nothing screams ‘welcome to this production of Macbeth’ better than a lovely full-body skeleton comfortably sitting centre stage.
The charming gentleman was the first character I met last night at the CFL Art Cafe in the Bussey Building - a suggestive performing space, large enough to allow an interesting setting, but that nonetheless will give you the chills when the lights go out.
The premise of this post-apocalyptic retelling of the famous tragedy was clearly stated in the programme: civilisation had met its fall, and humanity is trying its best to survive through violence, living on the scraps of the previous world. The setting and costumes give justice to this new world, and I found myself wondering how military clothes and bullet belts could feel even more appropriate than traditional costumes. Because they really did. This new desperate-fallen-revolutionaries look just clicked with the characters better than I expected.
I found the visuals and sounds of the second act particularly beautiful - especially if you have a thing for dark and stormy nights, blood-thirsty characters, and violent actions, like I do. That was the part where the raw savagery of the plot found its perfect expression in this broken, hopeless imitation of humanity.
And yet, this backstory also becomes a downside to the production. It raised lots of expectations on the way this story was going to intertwine with the original and what it could add to it, but these were never fulfilled. The backstory was more of a background than a story, maybe also due to a pretty static stage. Since I love the idea, I would definitely love to see how this would play out in a larger production.
The cast gave a fierce, energetic performance that had its strongest moments during the second act. At points I was amazed at how I felt as though I was in the middle of a epic war with only six actors actually fighting on stage.
The witches chose to go for a seriously creepy effect (borderline disturbing, I would say). Their movements had something feral, that belongs to wild beasts rather than humans. The main pair - Macbeth and his Lady - were just made for the part. Henry Proffit’s Macbeth starts off with a cheeky smile, almost playful, but his later torment seems genuine. Sadie Pepperrell (also one of the witches) plays a Lady Macbeth who looks extraordinarily young, charming, and ambitious. Her mental breakdown in Act 2 was particularly strong and convincing.
My loyalty, however, goes to Macduff (Jared Fortune) and his family. Lady Macduff (Danielle Bond - again, one of the witches as well) fights like a tiger against four men, and so does her son, before being slaughtered. Macduff’s despair was so authentic I took his family's death as a personal offence, and I was really invested in their revenge.
A special mention goes to the kids - Quentin Debone as Macduff’s son, and Adam Nkomo as Fleance at this performance - who really made an impression on me and, from the high-pitched noises I heard, on the rest of the audience as well.
This Macbeth could be a starting point for something truly great; it is also a good way to get to know this venue, and definitely worth a trip to South London even if you're not local.
Macbeth plays until the 18th of November at the Bussey Building, Peckham
photo credit: Scott Rylander
Monday 30 October 2017
In Conversation With... Charlotte Cooper | The Night Pirates | Interview
Charlotte Cooper has had an extensive career and is currently starring in the swashbuckling family production, The Night Pirates. Charlotte sat down with Rewrite This Story to tell us about her career and why this production is perfect to take your little ones too!
For anyone that doesn’t know, can you explain a little about your career and highlights so far?
I have worked extensively in children's theatre. I have been lucky enough to tour all over the world including Singapore, Malaysia and America as well as all over the UK and a stint in the West End.
Have you always aspired to be a performer of did you have a different career path in mind when you were younger?
I discovered performing when I was 10 and knew instantly that I wanted to do it as my career. Prior to that I had wanted to be a farmer! I am still a big tractor fan and listen to The Archers daily.
What drew you to The Night Pirates?
The Night Pirates is a great book and gender equality in the form of female pirates is what the world needs! The team behind it are brilliant, Miranda and Barrie work beautifully together and Rose Theatre Kingston produce such excellent stuff. As soon as I heard it was being done I was itching to be seen for it. I am really pleased and proud to be a part of it
Did you have a favourite bedtime story growing up?
I was a big fan of Each Peach Pear Plum and the Jane Hissey Old Bear stories. I still have a soft spot for those.
What would your pirate name be?
What WOULD it be?! I am already blessed with one! ChARRRlotte or Captain Cooper. Captain ChARRRlotte Cooper to give me my full name.
Can you sum up the show in five words?
Swashbuckling action-packed piratey fun!
How do you adapt to performing in front of groups of mainly children compared to mainly adults?
An audience of mainly children is not a forgiving one! With shows for younger audiences, you know immediately by their reaction if something has or hasn't worked. They become restless if not fully entertained and need to be given plenty of opportunities to interact. It is a high energy medium and you have to be thinking constantly.
Younger audiences notice everything, it’s impossible to trick them or divert them, if something funny happens on stage they will have noticed and you can't gloss over the moment in the way you could with an adult audience. (I was once in a show where another character and I collided and he fell over. It was incredibly funny as he fell to the floor and into a spotlight centre stage, the whole audience saw it so I had to acknowledge it had happened which gave them permission to laugh and helped to explain my obvious guffaws!)
What’s a fun fact people may not know about you?
I have a keen interest in dinosaurs and am currently studying a paleobiology course. I find it fascinating!
What’s your best piece of advice for an aspiring performer?
Find your niche. The acting industry is vast and there are many different genres and mediums, the thing you may be best suited to you might not know about yet. Be open and receptive to trying new stuff and find what you enjoy.
A huge thank you to Charlotte for taking the time to do this interview. The Night Pirates is touring until November 19th, more information can be found here.
Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor
A huge thank you to Charlotte for taking the time to do this interview. The Night Pirates is touring until November 19th, more information can be found here.
Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor
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