Created by: Red Fox Theatre and Megan Jenkins
Director: Megan Jenkins
Red Fox Theatre presents Bill, its wacky and wonderful second production, at the Omnibus Theatre this month. Created in collaboration with playwright and director Megan Jenkins, Bill is an inventive and inspired way to tell an unbelievable real-life tale.
Appropriately self-described as creators of ‘chaos theatre’ – telling complex true stories in the wildest ways they can – the company absolutely deliver on this with Bill. The production feels like a parody of real-life events, though sometimes the truth is just that ridiculous, and the company have buckets of fun using a blend of fact, fiction and anecdotal evidence to unravel the curious life of Milton William Cooper.
Cooper was an infamous American conspiracy theorist who spread his message as a radio broadcaster and eventual author. The company have certainly put in the work to make sure their meticulously researched play educates as much as it entertains. Hanging above Jonjo McGuire’s gorgeous presentation of an 80’s radio broadcast station, three light-up signs display the words ‘True’, ‘Unsubstantiated’ and ‘Quote’. These are explained through an in-character introduction by the cast, befitting the self-aware nature of the production, before proceeding to glow during the corresponding moments of storytelling.
Bill’s humour is absolutely its greatest asset. Whether through wit, wordplay, melodrama or mime, the production never misses an opportunity to be completely ridiculous – with no joke too dumb. A particular highlight is a parody film trailer which mocks every recognisable trope imaginable and even threatens the actors’ ability to keep a straight face. Any audience members drinking may want to time their sips carefully, as this is peak spit-take comedy.
The cast unanimously impresses, with each actor demonstrating strong singing, accent, and comedy skills across their respective range of multi-role characters. Callum McGuire, in particular, stands out due to his unhinged ability to embody hilarious, exaggerated characters. Alternatively, Jonty Weston’s talent shines through in his darker moments, captivating the audience with an increasingly resentful and crazed portrayal of the titular role.
The cast continues to contribute even out of the spotlight, often using their voices (and a collection of instruments) to create soundscapes which range from pleasantly subtle to comically distracting. Otherwise, they are quick-changing, arming themselves with the next comedy prop or coordinating set changes around the action. Bill is a true ensemble effort with countless moving parts, and it is a credit to the entire team that the production runs as smoothly as it does.
The concept of musical docu-theatre about a dangerous right-wing conspiracist may not immediately scream fun night out; yet, Red Fox Theatre chooses to double down on the absurdity rather than the danger of such beliefs. In doing so, Bill becomes a sillier, safer viewing experience and makes for a genuinely joyful evening of entertainment.
Runs until 22 December 2024
