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Being the only spectators, or should I say visitors at this sneaky preview, we were given extra special attention from the Samsa household and the lovingly named Grotesques.
The production was thoroughly inventive and original. Supplementing the standard script, director Alexander Wright introduced a chorus to this immersive theatre production to make it a little less dry. The sinister Grotesques brought this Berkoff favourite to life with ridiculously enthusiastic performances. Prepare yourself to be manipulated both physically and emotionally as this little lot provide a range of experiences veering from sheer hilarity to absolute awkwardness. The purists among you may possibly dislike this insertion. However, I found that the chorus enhanced the production to make it as exciting and dynamic as possible in the restrictive yet intimate Drama Barn.
The physicality of the performance, from fight scenes to fully choreographed dance routines, was astoundingly impressive. With just 3 weeks to prepare the production, the rehearsals must have been horrifically intense. The impressively talented Jamie Wilkes, playing Gregor Samsa, deserves to have the body of an Adonis after his gruelling performance. Anticipate inclusion in the more upbeat physical frivolities as the cast take the term ‘immersive theatre’ to new heights.
Dominic Allen, playing Gregor’s father, was especially convincing as a working class bully with decided anger problems. However, after an embarrassingly realistic ‘bathroom’ scene, I’ll never look at him in quite the same way again.
Using hypnotism and relaxation techniques developed by Jerzy Grotowski, it was clear that the cast became thoroughly immersed in their respective characters. Dominic Allen, playing Gregor’s father, was especially convincing as a working class bully with decided anger problems. However, after an embarrassingly realistic ‘bathroom’ scene, I’ll never look at him in quite the same way again. Giving a notably adept set of performances, Matt Springett at one time played three characters at once with contrastive, side-splittingly hilarious voices for differentiation. This is talent you don’t want to miss.
The cast’s performances were exceptionally well orchestrated and the subtle direction by Alexander Wright clearly worked well for this team. If I had to give one criticism I’d say that certain sections were too drawn out to provide maximum intensity. However, the fast-paced action for the remaining time certainly compensated and I walked away satisfied and only slightly baffled. It is rare for a student production to be so inventive, original and cohesive. I suggest you see this team while they’re still playing the Drama Barn as it’s safe to say you’ll be paying far more to see some of them in future.
Metamorphosis runs from Thursday 24th until Sunday 27th January with performances at 7:30pm. Tickets available at Vanbrugh stalls or on the door. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.
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