Chaucer’s ‘Canterbury Tales’ may be a cornerstone of English literature, but this African adaptation proves just how universal his characters remain. Transporting the familiar pilgrims to the road to Lagos, Nigerian company Overo’s translation is a colourful spectacle, complete with singing, drumming and dance. While faithfully retelling the old story of adultery and double dealing, they slip in a few modern references, which work well as comic asides but feel underdeveloped and unnecessary as comments on contemporary concerns. If the tale itself could be have been tighter, the performance couldn’t. The ensemble display enormous energy, getting easy laughs and spontaneous applause with their squabbling, gossiping, great chemistry and obvious warmth. Their tale is bold, bright and full of heart.

C Chambers Street, 1-27 Aug, 1.15pm.
tw rating 4/5 | [Dave Fargnoli]

Sections: by Dave Fargnoli - ED2012 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 4/5 | Tags: C Venues, Overo Productions Nigeria

Also from ThreeWeeks...

1. ED2012 Theatre Review: Pierrepoint – The Hangman’s Tale (Café Society)

   ‘The Hangman’s Tale’ is exactly what the title suggests. Martin Oldfield tells the story of Britain’s most famous hangman, giving a compelling performance in his own right but also raising...

2. ED2012 Theatre Review: Treasure Island (SJC Productions)

   Skilful storytelling and enough conviction can transform an empty room into a ship, a tropical island or a cave full of treasure. It’s a shame, then, that SJC never quite...

3. ED2012 Theatre Review: Presidential Suite – A Modern Fairy Tale (B & G Productions – New York)

   “You don’t understand how the world works!” the words echo from the stage, hang in the air, and resonate through the core of ‘Presidential Suite: A Modern Fairytale’. Its central...