Friday 15 December 2017
War Horse, New Theatre Oxford | Review
War Horse
New Theatre Oxford
Reviewed on Wednesday 13th December 2017 by Donna Meredith
★★★★★
I came to this production having read the Michael Morpurgo novel, on which this adaptation by Nick Stafford is based, several times with my children. I relished the prospect of finally getting to see how this beloved story would translate from the page to the stage, and how the characters of Joey and Topthorn in particular would be brought to life in puppetry.
Since its premiere on 17th October 2007 War Horse has been mesmerising audiences across the world and I now know why. This 10th Anniversary tour is made more poignant by its timing following the recent 100 year anniversary of armistice day.
The production depicted the extraordinary and deeply moving story of the relationship between the central character, Albert Narracott played by the superb Thomas Dennis, and his beloved horse, Joey.
On one hand, the tale of a young man’s unwavering quest to find his adored horse after it was requisitioned for the WW1 war effort. On another, this tells the story of how horses were used and sacrificed in huge numbers on the French battlefields.
Alberts quest to be reunited with Joey takes us on a journey as he enlists and goes off to war. The reality of war is brought to life on stage to dramatic effect, the sound effects and imagery at times alarming in their honesty and intensity. The stirring music and songs, alongside the visual imagery projected on stage add to the powerful impact.
We see how relationships develop both on the home front and on the bloody battlefields and how the war effects different characters. A poignant example is the friendship between Friedrich Muller played by Peter Becker and young Emilie played by Joelle Brabban. As the horrors of battle take their inevitable toll on Muller we see him lose his grip on reality and develop an almost childlike quality.
However the standout stars of the show, in my opinion, are the Handspring Puppet Company who bring amazing puppetry and skill to the stage. To describe the horses as 'puppets' doesn't do justice to how amazing they are. Even with the puppeteers in full view of the audience, the horses appear 'real'. They come to life before you, galloping, charging, breathing . I was immersed in the story and the realism of what was portrayed on stage.
Complex, intense and disturbing yet gentle and moving in equal measure. I would recommend this wonderful production to theatre goers of all ages. A enduring story of humanity and friendship and a timely reminder of the futility of war and the sacrifices made by those that have gone before us.
War Horse runs at the New Theatre Oxford until 6th January 2018.
Thursday 14 December 2017
Pinocchio, National Theatre | Review
Pinocchio
Lyttleton Theatre, National Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 13th December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Disney have given the stage rights of the Oscar-winning Pinnochio score to the team at the National Theatre who are on a mission to create their next theatrical spectacle. Based on the fable by Carol Collodi, this show tells the story of a Geppetto, a puppeteer who longs for a child. One night he is visited by a mystical lady who commissions a new puppet to be made out of her own enchanted wood. This puppet needs no strings and is for all intents and purposes, a boy... except for the fact he's made of wood!
Marketed towards "Brave 8 year-olds and above" this show is definitely darker and more sinister than the Disney classic. Featuring a strange Fox who's tail is full of magic and a host of other not so kind characters, this definitely has more depth than expected. I was throughly entertained by by both the child-aimed and adult-aimed jokes, of which there was a good mix and all were pulled off well.
The use of oversized puppets (designed by Tom Olie) is absolutely wonderful. The actors and puppets become one through their synchronised makeup and the way they move together. At first I was a little confused by the fact that the puppets mouths don't move as they speak, however, this issue melted away almost instantly and I found the lack of movement especially striking in first act when Stromboli became deathly angry; the contrast between the dramatic voice of and the sinister smile on the puppet make my skin crawl.
As Pinoccio, Joe Idris-Roberts starts out throughly annoying, doing as he pleases with no care for his actions, however as he grows and develops he becomes more likeable and his journey of self realisation is wonderful. He cleverly embodies childlike qualities and shows his 'wooden' side well, despite having no physical pointers.
As his conscience, Audrey Brisson is hilarious. Dramatic and obsessive she manages to warm the audience to her whilst remaining extremely humourous. Again the link between her and her puppet, helped along by another puppet master is absolutely outstanding.
Mention must also go to Mark Hadfield who is sincere but strong as Geppetto (along with David Kirkbride). Especially in the opening scenes his acting and voice are really shown off and he gives a lovely performance. Dawn Sievewright also deserves notice for her energetic performance as Lampy in Pleasure Island (however I do think this scene could've been cut down slightly).
This is a magical, heart-warming production which uses a variety of theatrical devices in the purest and most masterful way. I'd certainly urge you to get to the National to experience it for yourself and be reminded of the importance of love and family.
Pinocchio runs at the National Theatre until April 2018.
Photo credit: Manuel Harlan
Jack and the Beanstalk (Pantomime), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Jack and the Beanstalk (Panto)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 12th December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Now I must admit, I'm not the biggest panto fan but I thought I'd give it a go this year so popped along to Wimbledon to see Jack and the Beanstalk and I was pleasantly surprised! Festive favourite and seasoned Dame, Clive Rowe takes on the role of Dame Trot whilst comedian Al Murray is a panto newbie as the landlord, Al.
Directed by Thom Southerland, Jack and the Beanstalk focusses on the humourous rapport between Rowe and Murray rather than an actual storyline. Panto isn't Shakespeare and of course the plot isn't meant to be dramatic or emotive, but at times it did feel a little too bare and in-cohesive and was somewhat of a let down. However, the witty one liners and and magical moments saved the show.
Despite some of his jokes falling a bit flat, Murray is hilarious as the Pub Landlord and his audience interaction is fantastic. He really knows how to warm and audience up. I also appreciated how much he was able to not take himself seriously and just brush off when a joke doesn't work. Clive Rowe as Dame Trot is fantastic and again, works the audience wonderfully. The two are really a winning pair; bouncing off one another and pushing each other to corpse at every possible moment. I loved this interaction and they really made the show.
I personally wasn't a fan of the music used. The songs are forgettable and felt put in for the sake of it. The children involved however, seemed to be having the time of their lives which was lovely to watch. Liam Tamne was great as Jack but I would've liked to see more of him. Despite being the title role, he was barely in the show and his relationship with Princess Apricot came and went at lightning speed. The second half especially felt like a mad dash to rap up the story.
The special effects were magical and definitely make the show for the children and adults alike. The dramatic helicopter scene at the end of Act 1 was unexpected and exciting and the 3D scene in act 2 added another level of interest.
At the end of the show everyone was buzzing and seemed to have really enjoyed their night at the panto. Don't expect a masterpiece, but for a fun, lighthearted show full of one-liners and audience interaction, take a trip to the New Wimbledon Theatre and experience this show for yourself.
Jack and the Beanstalk runs at New Wimbledon Theatre until January 14th.
photo credit: Craig Sugden
In Conversation With... Matt Addis | Remarkable Invisible | Interview
Matt Addis is currently starring in Remarkable Invisible, he sat down with me to chat all about the show, theatre he's recently loved and more...
For anyone that doesn’t know, can you explain a little about your career and what your highlight have been so far
For anyone that doesn’t know, can you explain a little about your career and what your highlight have been so far
I’ve been acting professionally for ten years, after escaping a blossoming career in corporate sales. Playing Nicholls in the international tour of War Horse was a delight, especially the shows for township kids in South Africa, where the puppets originated.
Have you always aspired to be a performer or did you have a different dream when you were younger?
I always aspired to be James Bond, but after reading John le Carré I decided acting was maybe a less tedious career.
Have you got any hidden passions you’d like to pursue?
Rally driving, although I’ll need a few more well-paid jobs to really make that happen.
What can people expect when they come and see Remarkable Invisible?
A deftly-woven, delicate portrait of a family. Beautiful naturalistic dialogue and some hard home truths.
What drew you to the role of Christopher in Remarkable Invisible- are the two of you alike in any ways?
It’s a beautiful play, deftly painted onto a very small canvas. I was enchanted by the quality of the writing, which feels so beautifully fresh. Christopher is an emotionally stunted millionaire architect who lives in San Francisco and likes good bourbon. I like good bourbon.
Can you sum up the play in five words?
Family. Moving. Home. Lies. Truth.
Is there a play or musical you’ve seen recently that you loved?
Iphigenia in Splott, with Sophie Melville at the NT has to be the finest piece of theatre I’ve seen in years. Excoriating, visceral and evocative. Sophie’s worked here at Keswick before, and I hope she’s back very soon.
What’s a fun fact people might not know about you?
I once played Dame Edna Everage in an episode of Hollyoaks.
What’s your best piece of advice for an aspiring performer?
Listen to all the advice you can find, and disregard everything that gets in your way. Believe in yourself with a passion stronger than any obstacle. Find joy in the present, wherever that is!
A huge thank you to Matt for taking the time to chat to me. Make sure you catch him in Remarkable Invisible as well as any future projects!
Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor
A huge thank you to Matt for taking the time to chat to me. Make sure you catch him in Remarkable Invisible as well as any future projects!
Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Pantomime), Pavilion Theatre, Worthing | Review
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Pantomime)
Pavilion Theatre, Worthing
Reviewed on Wednesday 6th December 2017 by Jackie Duplock
★★★★
I took my youngest children along ages 9 years and 17 months to watch Snow White, Worthing's Pavilion Theatre pantomime of the year.
The show took a while to get going, but after the first 15 minutes the performance was in full flow and both children (and adults) were thoroughly enjoying themselves.
Snow White offered all that you expect and more from Panto: slapstick humour, innuendos and wonderful musical numbers. One of which was of course Chesney Hawkes’ performance of his Number 1 hit, 'One and Only' which had the entire audience up on their feet and (for those old enough to remember it the first time round), singing along.
The stand out performances of the night came from Cbeebies favourite Richard David-Caine playing Herman the Henchman who really stole the show. Particularly with his fast thinking and witty responses- especially when faced with the children on stage not quite understanding the rules given for the song game they took part in- leading to hilarious results.
The other performance I felt was particularly outstanding was that from X factor finalist Niki Evans playing the Wicked Queen, she really belted out some fabulous tunes with her powerful voice, as well as acting the role well -a natural performer. Alongside Simon Howe playing Dame Dolly, the chemistry between these two performers really shines through and produces some quality comedy moments.
This is one of the best Pantomime performances I have seen in a very long time delivering everything you could want and more from a night out at a Panto!
Snow White at the Pavilion Theatre is definitely the "One and only" Panto to see this festive season, highly recommended!
Snow White runs at the Pavilion Theatre until January 1st 2018.
In Conversation with Jonathan Andrew Hume | Alice in Winterland | Interview
Jonathan Andrew Hume played the lead role of Simba in The Lion King and is set to star in the Rose Theatre's production of Alice in Hinterland, alongside the Rose Youth Company. Jonathan spoke to Rewrite This Story about the show and all things Christmas...
What have some of your career highlights been?
I have been blessed with some great career opportunities. Two of my career highlights have been playing the lead role of Simba in Disney’s The Lion King in the West End, and also working with Emily Blunt, Lin-Manuel Miranda and director Rob Marshall in the upcoming movie Mary Poppins Returns.
What attracted you to this production of Alice in Winterland?
Our director Ciaran McConville has written a great take on Alice’s adventure. After reading excerpts of Ciaran’s script adaptation for my audition, and hearing Eamonn O’Dwyer’s great song the Blue Caterpillar sings, I knew this was going to be a fun project to work on, and I’m so glad to be a part of it.
What can we expect from the show?
You can expect a brand new and exciting adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s iconic story. A thrilling and sometimes mad adventure into Wonderland, taking you on a journey of Alice’s self-discovery and with the help of her new-found friends, realisation of what strength and power lies inside her.
You play the Caterpillar/Knave, what’s the funnest part about playing these roles?
Playing the extravagance and edgy lethargies of the Blue Caterpillar are the most fun. He’s such a great character to play. However, quite frankly, playing the Knave is also fun because I play a villain! I’ve always wanted to play one of the bad guys, and there is a certain satisfaction in getting “booed” by the audience at the end. You definitely know you’ve done your job properly... or at least I hope that’s what they’re “booing” for!!!
Who in the show do you think is most like their character?
I think our four talented young actresses sharing the role of Alice (Ellie Clark, Madeline Lynes, Gaia Mondadori and Hannah Wilkinson) have become most like their characters. All four of them are living the role each night they go on, and they do it with ease. Seeing them grow as actresses through this rehearsal process has been a privilege to watch. Their acting choices are natural and personal, and they make Alice so relatable that you cannot help but feel with her, the love, anguish, pain and joy she goes through before your eyes.
When it’s 'Time for Tea', what’s your biscuit of choice?
Oooh, that’s a hard one! I’d probably have to say it’s a tie between an Oatmeal and Raisin Cookie and an Oreo.
On a scale of 1-10 how much of a Christmas lover are you?
Probably a '9’. I love spending time with family, gift giving, singing carols and getting into the spirit of Christmas. I take away one point because as beautiful as winter can be, especially when snowing, I’m not the biggest fan of the cold!
If you could spend Christmas with anyone dead or alive (other than your family), who would you choose?
Wow! Another hard question. I think I would actually like to spend Christmas with the Hatter from the show, because it would definitely be the craziest, funniest (and messiest) Christmas dinners ever!
Give us your best sales pitch as to why people should come and see Alice in Winterland!
Alice in Winterland is an extraordinary Christmas show which people both young and old will enjoy. Be ready to be taken on an adventure into Wonderland that is like no other. With enchanting scenery and costumes, extraordinary puppetry and memorable songs, all put together by an amazingly talented creative team and performed by a brilliant cast!
A huge thank you to Jonathan for taking the time to do this interview. Alice in Winterland runs at the Rose Theatre until January 7th.
Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor
photo credit: Mark Douet
Tuesday 12 December 2017
Jayde Adams is Jayded, Soho Theatre | Review
Jayde Adams is Jayded
Soho Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 11th December 2017 by Shaun Dicks
★★★★★
Open on the West End, Soho Theatre. A hotbed of theatre and comedic excellence. We find ourselves in the Downstairs space, the set up is of a comedy club. The bar, a scattering of tables and chairs, and an elevated stage that’s dressed with a park bench and a piano. We are welcomed with music from Musical Theatre and Pop Culture. As I wrote before the show, we are in for a hell of a night.
A hell of a night was had by all. Jayde Adams is a beautifully voluptuous woman who takes us on a journey full of laughs. She takes us through a wonderfully crafted set all about popularity and success. Through various devices like mime, song, best friend tests and audience interaction Adams made me cry laughing. Her timing was so perfect, so on point that despite a few word stumbles, everything landed.
One of the highlights of the show was Adams’ use of song, her original songs were Tim Minchin esque and her not so original songs were executed perfectly. The musical aspect of the show was truly satisfying. Another highlight was Adams’ use of the best friend test. This involved using a member of the audience, which by nature is a tricky thing, but Adams navigated it perfectly. This writer was buying what she was selling when Adams broke out the wigs and fan, giving the audience a Beyoncé moment that we will never forget. She was willing to improvise and play with the audience as the show went along. She had the audience in the palm of her hands.
As Adams said during the show, she smashed it. Adams reminded me of my Aunt, with her warm Bristolian accent shewas crass, boisterous and unapologetic in the best way. It is a show that deserves to be seen, it’ll be the best decision you’ve ever made. You will cry with laughter. A sprinkle of happiness in the holiday season.
Saturday 9 December 2017
Evita (UK Tour), Palace Theatre Manchester | Review
Evita (UK Tour)
Palace Theatre, Manchester
Reviewed on Thursday 7th December 2017 by Jeni Skirrow
★★★★
Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber have written some truly captivating, catchy musicals and Evita is of course iconic and no exception to this. An ever popular rags-to-riches type of story based on the life and demise of Eva Peron, wife of Argentine president, Juan Peron. The plot follows her rise to iconic status heralding her as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’, heroine of the Argentine people, and of course her untimely premature demise.
Straight from the West End, Manchester was privileged to be the first stop in the new twelve month tour of Bill Kenwright’s production. Eva Peron’s role is a demanding performance and Madalena Alberto is mesmerisingly magnificent, with not just unfalteringly consistent vocals, but how beautifully she captures the fledgling radio star’s glamour, seduction, hope and steely desperation. 'Don’t Cry For Me Argentina' is undoubtedly the most highly anticipated song in the show and Madalena’s performance did not fail to give me goose bumps- exquisite. “As for fortune and for fame, I never invited them in”... until the final curtain there’s something very dubious about this statement.
The narrator Che deserves a mention, heroic Gian Marco Schiaretti’s presence (and biceps) were suitably foreshadowing- he is perfect for the role. His strong and versatile performance was a joy to watch.
Each scene was beautifully realised through expert choreography, cleverly slick staging and continual costume changes for Eva, telling a story within itself. This production was everything I hoped it would be and more. Emotional, beautiful and inspiring it was an ideal theatrical experience.
Evita is a moving story, with a mixture of up-beat, high intensity numbers as well as slower, more emotionally moving pieces. This balance and contrast makes it flow smoothly and provides a wonderful night out at the theatre. With beautiful music, great staging and fabulous performances all round, I implore you to get along to this show if you can.
Photo credit: Keith Pattison
Callisto: A Queer Epic, Arcola Theatre | Review
Callisto: A Queer Epic
Arcola Theatre
Reviewed on Friday 8th December 2017 by Shaun Dicks
★★★★
“To be patient is to suffer.”
Arcola Theatre. London’s East End. Four stories all about a community that knows suffering all too well. The LGBT community. The theatre is bare – no props or furniture set – just the harsh concrete floor and the bare brick walls. We are set in the thrust and are welcomed by edgy, East End music. The music and lights drop, the show begins.
The show follows four different LGBT stories all in different time periods. They have their own narratives and different characters but they all fall on to two similar topics; suffering and love. The script of this show is a gem. Hal Coase has created a rich and full script that is a wonder to see being brought to life by the actors. There was a richness to the dialogue that was natural but moving. Credit should also be given to director Thomas Bailey, the way that the show moves - scene to scene, time period to time period - was well executed for the most part.
However, there are two downfalls to this show. The first, is the story set in space; these scenes were basic, under rehearsed and ultimately lacklustre. It felt like this story had been given less time and care in its rehearsals. It’s one saving grace was Cal (Nicholas Finerty), this character was endearing, innocent and charming. Unfortunately, the second downfall of this show – excluding the character Cal – was the performance of the male cast. The men within the show were one-dimensional, simple and lacking any type of edge. There was so much to work with story wise, it was disappointing that the men didn’t capitalise.
Thankfully for this show and its audience, the women of this show, stole it. These women created well rounded, fully realised characters. They made us feel, laugh and gasp. Whether it was a cheesy 70’s porn scene, locked up in a tower or in the comfort of home; the scenes were intriguing, captivating and hilarious. The woman who really stole the show for me was Phoebe Hames (Isobel, Nurse, Aunty), her performance was simply outstanding. Hames’ comedic timing was something to be savoured and enjoyed.
The script is scintillating, the direction is clever and the acting on the female side is exquisite. If that were replicated by the other half of the cast, we would have one hell of a show on our hands. In its current form the show is good, and is well worth a watch. The stories deserve to be heard and there are some performances that needs to be seen.
Callisto runs at the Arcola Theatre until December 23rd
Photo credit: Lidia Crisafulli
Friday 8 December 2017
The Barricade Boys: Christmas Cabaret, The Other Palace Studio | Review
The Barricade Boys: Christmas Cabaret (Concert)
The Other Palace Studio
Reviewed on Thursday 7th December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
The Barricade Boys bring together some of the finest Lew Miserables alumni (Scott Garnham, Craig Mather, Kieran Brown, Simon Schofield) and finest male voices to create truly beautiful sounds and performances. The boys have toured extensively and appeared on a number of television programmes but this time they're back for a three week-residency of Christmas delights at The Other Palace.
I've really been getting into the Christmas spirit recently with a number of festive shows and this was certainly one of the best. Entering the studio of The Other Palace we are greeted with a beautifully adorned Christmas tree and a cosy log fire projected onto the wall which sets the mood for the relaxed, warm evening to come. The boys normally perform with a seven-piece band but this time opt for a "stripped back" performance with just them and the piano (played fantastically by musical director, Noam Galperin) which further adds to the intimate feeling of the night.
The set of 23 songs was varied and extremely well put together with a mixture of festive favourites, Les Mis hits and some more unexpected songs. Standout moments included I'll Be Home For Christmas/Bring Him Home and Man In The Mirror which both featured tight harmonies and wonderful interaction between the boys. Their rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody must get a special mention as it was done so well; with suitable emotion and humour to keep it entertaining and amusing, whilst maintaining the integrity and showing off everyone's unique voices.
When speaking about the goals of the group, Scott explained that they take the work very seriously but not themselves and this is exactly right. The music was faultless but made all the better by the brilliant on stage interactions where the boys bounced off one another and seemed to genuinely be having fun.
Each night a special West End star will join the boys on stage, this particular night we had the pleasure of seeing the supremely talented Michael Xavier. He performed a haunting, melancholy version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas before the boys joined him for a side splitting, Les Mis version of the Twelve Days of Christmas. Michael was a lovely addition to the programme and the number of amazing guests set to appear, certainly makes me want to go back to another concert in the run.
This pitch perfect ensemble with stand out solo moments and smooth, natural, humourous on stage rapport is all you could ask for at Christmas time. For a festive, lighthearted evening of top notch entertainment, you can't go wrong with The Barricade Boys and I would high recommend paying them a visit during their run!
The Barricade Boys are at The Other Palace until December 23rd
The Barricade Boys are at The Other Palace until December 23rd
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