Theatre / bovts
Review: ROAD, Circomedia
Explosive energy and snappy rhythm characterise a set of masterful performances in this latest production from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, in roles that range from the hilarious to the haunting and beautifully nuanced.
Jim Cartwright’s play follows the inhabitants of a single Lancashire street as they gear up for a party during the high noon of Thatcher’s 1980s: and this cast vividly bring to life a topic and an era that predate their own lifetimes. And, for all those shows that proudly label themselves ‘immersive’, BOVTS’ student actors, set designers and others manage the experience effortlessly.
BOVTS’ actors weave through the audience, hit the DJ decks during the disco interval and sing karaoke over the mic while punters top up their drinks at the bar. The actors’ skilful ability is clearest in their à la carte interplay with the audience, engineering ‘mishaps’ that, on this reviewer’s night, include fast food flying up the girls’ skirts.
Some serious attention to detail, from the correctly labelled whisky bottles to the protruding shoulder pads and Bakelite iron, provide plenty of visual treats. Returning from the interval, the stage reeks all too accurately of the British chippy. More visceral aspects of the production include a chip tied to a strand of hair and chunks of vomit painting the stage floor, delighting and disgusting in equal measure.
The acting technicalities are tight: the actors sustain their voice projection even when, making full use of Circomedia’s enchanting Georgian church home, they are stalking each other down above the audience on the first floor pews. Before the lights come up and after they go down, the cast are completely immersed in their roles, impervious to snoops looking for holes in the acting (although they could perhaps sneak around more quietly behind the scenes).
A spine-tingling vocal rendition sets the atmosphere for Joey’s bed scene. Sam Woolf’s dedication to the character, cheekbones protruding, could give Christian Bale’s ‘Machinist’ a run for his money. Comedic timing is approached with military precision, while Dominic Allen’s voicing of his offstage wife is hilarious and the awkward silences deafening.
The biggest joy of the promenade staging is the opportunity to watch tight-lipped elder ladies cast their mind back to the anthem of 80s hits, and to witness burly bearded men fighting back tears during Tilly Steele’s haunting soliloquy as Louise in the closing moments.
Road continues at Circomedia, Bristol until Saturday, 15 November. For more info and to book tickets, visit http://www.oldvic.ac.uk/whats-on.html
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