REVIEW: Barnum, Watermill (2024)
Roll Up! Roll Up! Don’t Miss This Show! "The Prince of Humbug”Nickname for PT Barnum Matt Rawle as PT Barnum. (Photo: Pamela Raith) On a fine summer’s evening, acrobats dressed…
Roll Up! Roll Up! Don’t Miss This Show! "The Prince of Humbug”Nickname for PT Barnum Matt Rawle as PT Barnum. (Photo: Pamela Raith) On a fine summer’s evening, acrobats dressed…
Embark on a spectacular journey into the heart of Bollywood with Bollywood Odyssey. Bollywood Odyssey follows the journey of Karan and Priya, who find themselves magically traversing the fantastical realm of Bollywood. Guided by enigmatic figures embodying the essence of Bollywood, they embark on an adventure told through some of the most iconic songs and scenes over the last few decades, uncovering the tapestry of Bollywood's cinematic legacy and transformative power of love, music, and dance that defines this dynamic realm. Find yourself immersed within the unfolding drama, whether you align yourself with the virtuous cops and guardians of Bollywood's essence, or the allure of the notorious Gabbar's henchmen, radiating with sinister swagger and rebellion. For the best experience, come join us from 12PM for matinee performances or 5PM for evening performances. You'll get to enjoy traditional Mumbai street food stalls, immersive acting and dancing performances, and fun pop-up events. Price band A on Friday and Saturday evening performances only includes a complimentary snack box and entry to VIP after party. Don’t forget to dress up - audience members are strongly encouraged to embrace the spirit of Bollywood by arriving in fancy dress attire.
Edward Hall directs in a reconfigured Hampstead Theatre with a double revolve stage and the audience circling the stage. A running track surrounds the stage with some of the audience sitting inside the track, others higher up in the circle and above with advertising banners for Lipton's Tea and other period products. The opening scene sees modern British Olympic contenders, warming up, give way to men in 1920s athletics kit, poised on starting blocks and running around the track to Vangelis's beautiful film score. Scott Ambler has choreographed the runners who prepare, limber up and then fly round the stadium. It is exciting and looks dangerous as they make the turns at speed.