A good concept and a good translation to stage, this is X-Factor in prison. Who will get out? The innocent mother of two small children, the defunct drug addict who wants to stay in, or the aspiring borderline singer? Three different stories challenge the audience to a constant change of perspectives and sympathies. An interesting combination of video, acting and obnoxious in-your-face sound creates a sarcastic parody of reality TV. Assigning a colour to each prisoner and letting the audience vote with badges according to the colour brings out the spoof even more. The three actresses draw the characters well, switching from inmates to guards, and the video projections of ‘personal references’ are very well done. Simple but effective.
Paradise In Augustine’s, 16 – 28 Aug (not 22), 7.20pm (8.30pm), £7.00 – £9.50, fpp260.
tw rating 3/5
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Sections: by Veronika Kallus - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 3/5 | Tags: Paradise Venues, Whoop 'n' Wail Theatre Company
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