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ED2019 3/5 Reviews ED2019 Theatre Reviews
(I)sland T(rap): The Epic Remixology Of The Odyssey (Lyrical Therapy University and Aztec Economy)
By Ella Dorman-Gajic | Published on Thursday 22 August 2019
Sassy lobsters, wise cheaters and sadistic snakes: this quirky and eclectic retelling of ‘The Odyssey’ sees one man’s quest across an island, racing against the clock to reach the mountain top. Austin Dean Ashford’s skilled multi-rolling and distinct characterisation (particularly the personification of many animals) creates some exciting nuances in this mystical yet bizarre new world. Although some obstacles don’t reach their dramatic potential, he certainly takes us on an action-packed journey, weaving in rap, poetry and some ukulele for good measure. Deeper political messages regarding the protagonist’s experience with racial discrimination were explored, but weren’t built through the narrative, and so ended up feeling shoehorned in. Despite the clichéd ending, this was an entertaining and highly energetic show, with many wacky, comedic moments.
Assembly Checkpoint, until 26 Aug.
tw rating 3/5 | [Ella Dorman-Gajic]
