ED2014 5/5 Reviews ED2014 Theatre Reviews

Woyzeck (Splendid Productions)

By | Published on Thursday 7 August 2014

Buchner’s fragmented tragedy of jealousy and madness is rightly regarded as an existentialist masterpiece. It’s just not usually this funny. Splendid Productions confidently break down the bleak text, twisting it into a dark, anarchic music hall act that’s equal parts Brecht and Monty Python. Seamlessly splicing physicality, wicked asides and warm audience interaction, these three superb performers inject the show with wit, pathos and tremendous energy. It’s hilarious and horrific, erotic and brutal, and the hairpin emotional shifts could easily feel forced in less confident hands. Here though it’s never less than enthralling, held together with perfect timing, self assured ad-libs and a spot-on chimpanzee impression. This is a powerful, unsettling experience and a frankly brilliant performance.

Gilded Balloon, until 25 Aug.
tw rating 5/5 | [Dave Fargnoli]



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