Foul-mouthed and big-hearted, this retelling of Aristophanes’ comedy of sexual politics has the feel of a filthy pantomime. Staying faithful to the story of Grecian women withholding their charms to end a war, writer Alistair Rutherford inserts Scots patter and phallic puns, but doesn’t get deep enough into the gender issues which give the original its enduring complexity. As the plot develops and the women’s plan takes effect, proceedings start to fall flat – which is the opposite of what’s happening under the men’s togas. The large amateur ensemble is enthusiastic but uneven, delivering comic one–liners effectively, but lacking the timing to keep the dialogue sparking nor the interplay required to build any sexual tension.
Paradise In Augustine’s, 8 – 14 Aug, 7.45 pm (8.35 pm), £7.00 – £8.00, fpp276.
tw rating 2/5
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Sections: by Dave Fargnoli - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 2/5 | Tags: BigVillage Theatre Company, Paradise Venues
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