The play’s climax is strangely moving and leaves a contemplative atmosphere; however, excessively artistic episodes – during which, for example, a large sheet is passed over the audience in an attempt to somehow heighten their sense of being in Venice – detract from the diverse but somehow intertwined stories told by individuals experiencing Venice over five decades. Directorial decisions include repeatedly plunging the stage into darkness and asking the audience to close their eyes in meditation, something which is rendered almost impossible due to the writing’s complexity. Far from drawing the audience into the stories – narrated by four capable actors – these attempts at figurative imaginings are too self-conscious and overt, and render the play disjointed and underwhelming on the whole.
St George’s West, 5 – 29 Aug (not 10, 17, 24), 6.00pm (7.30pm), £12.00 – £17.00, fpp254.
tw rating 2/5
[kc]
Sections: by Katie Chapman - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 2/5 | Tags: Fire Exit Ltd, St George's West
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