How on earth could this Russian literary classic that is as complex as it is deep, that spans a huge physical distance and transverses centuries old classes, customs and culture; be translated onto a tiny stage in Crofton Park? The answer is, cleverly and originally with a hugely talented and versatile cast and a director (Ross McGregor) with vision. He has a fearless ability to take his cast across boundaries and he encourages them to take risks and to embrace the … [Read more...]
Morgan and West: Parlour Tricks at Wilton’s Music Hall – Review
Enter a world of time travelling magicians. Allow yourself to be transported back in time to a Victorian Parlour where two rather 'spiffing' chaps are going to entertain you with some tricks. In the lovingly restored first generation Music Hall, Wilton's is the perfect setting for a little after dinner entertainment. It's crackers, it's clever, it's comedy; it's a magical show in a magical place. Rhys Morgan and Robert West are comedy magicians who can count Derren Brown as one of their fans. … [Read more...]
Fantastic alternative Dick! at Leicester Square Theatre – Review
Warning! Not for faint-hearted (or easily offended). Dick! is an adult panto with an 18 certificate. Whereas a normal family panto is all about the innuendo and the double entendres, Dick! tells it like it is no blushes spared, no hints or teases; it’s direct, blunt and very, very rude. With a vague storyline regarding saving the village of Sohoho from the evil Queen filling it with designer eateries and pop up shops; the first half struggles trying to fit in both … [Read more...]
Caroline Bowditch – Falling in Love with Frida – Review
I think I was already a bit in love with Frida Khalo. Her art expresses her life and through her paintings and her voluminous written materials we have insight into her personality. Dark and brooding, sultry and self-obsessed, manic and convivial; her life story is compelling and captivating. It’s easy to see how performer Caroline Bowditch has been drawn to her and inspired to create a tribute to her. The performance is humorous, touching and at some points titillating. We the audience may … [Read more...]
Misch-Masch and Peter and The Wolf: Grimeborn 2015 – Review
The Arcola Theatre seems to be where the 'hip cats' are, it reminds me of a 'beatnik' bar; very urban and very trendy. It is in fact 'one of London's most extensive community engagement programmes staging a diverse offering of plays, operas and musicals'. The opportunity to watch not one but two childhood favourites performed here was enough to make a 7 year old me burst with excitement! The Basement Orchestra is an ad-hoc Orchestra for young people in London who fit in their passion for … [Read more...]