Reviewer: Bethan Highgate-Betts
One of the 10 shows selected for WINDOW 2017 Brighton Fringe’s Arts Industry Showcase, Cabaret From The Shadows dives into the mind of its audience. Exploring their deepest, darkest thoughts, no matter how weird or unpleasant they might be.
Created by Liverpool-based company Teatro Pomodoro, the show is a mix of physical theatre, live music, abstract performance and audience participation. With quick changes and clever choreography, the five performers tug at your sensibilities. From Jesus performing a striptease to a strait jacket clad performer singing about how happy he is, Cabaret From The Shadows is made up of a relentless flow of sketches.
Through the series of sketches, this surreal dark comedy sets out to shine a light on the thoughts we’d rather not admit we have but, unfortunately, a lot of it falls flat. There are, as billed, some ‘gasps’ from the audience, but also some groans, as topics such as racism, sexism and xenophobia are used as clunky punch lines. Its saving grace is the show’s performers, who make this strange rabble of characters somehow charming.
An intricately functioning set designed by Victoria Saville brings artistic flair to this eccentric performance. From dance cages to bloodied backdrops, it brings to mind classic horror films and sets the tone for the at time uncomfortable show. This coupled with the beautifully designed Beetlejuice-esque costumes designed by Carmen Arquelladas, makes for a highly visual show.
Overall a promising offering from a young company with a lot of talent.
Runs until 11 May 2017 | Image: Contributed
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Review Overview
The Reviews Hub Score:
Clever choreography
