Just These, Please are an exciting foursome presenting new sketch comedy at the Canal Cafe Theatre. Opening with the 'Animal Kingdom AGM', a concept I'd love to see them develop even further, the status quo for their show is established and riddled with clever gags and hilarious physicality. William Sebag-Montefiore is a vocal chameleon to such an extent that I had no idea as to his native accent until the end of the show. He is wonderfully expressive throughout and is especially amusing as … [Read more...]
Much Ado About Nothing at The Mercury Theatre Colchester
Surprisingly Much Ado About Nothing is actually the first Shakespeare that I've been to see at Colchester's Mercury Theatre. With 2016 being a big anniversary year for the Bard, it's been hard to avoid his extensive canon, wherever you look, and who would want to? There is a reason he is generally acknowledged as the greatest playwright of all. The Mercury's production takes Much Ado's location of Messina and transplants it into a contemporary garrison town, not unlike Colchester, even down … [Read more...]
Review of Wind In The Willows at Mercury Theatre Colchester
It was my pleasure to attend the Mercury Theatre's latest production, Kenneth Grahame's Wind in the Willows, as adapted by Willis Hall. Upon entering the auditorium, we are greeted by the site of a scaffold structure, giving the impression of woods, with many different ins and outs, ups and downs. The stage is decorated with carrier bags, crisp packets and old trollies, influenced by designer Katie Sykes' observations as she explored the countryside. This 'junk set' is used to great aplomb by … [Read more...]
5-Star The Stripper at St James Studio – Review
I have always had a love for the Rocky Horror Show so when I heard about The Stripper, a musical by the team behind Rocky Horror, needless to say I was excited. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect upon arriving at the St James Theatre but I think Frank N. Furter and co now have a major rival for my musical affections. As I settled into place in the gorgeous St James Studio, I was struck by the intimate atmosphere arranged for this show. The first two rows are set out as small bar-like … [Read more...]
Private Lives at Mercury Theatre Colchester – Review
Upon entering the Mercury auditorium, I’m struck by the simple elegance of Sara Perks’ design, complemented by Richard Godin’s lighting. Long, flowing fabrics create the balcony overlooking the French coast, offering the chance for a quick, smooth transition between Deauvillian hotel and Parisian apartment. This really helps the pace for a play that often feels like it has an early interval. Esther Richardson’s energetic staging keeps the cast on its toes and the four main players, with the … [Read more...]