Reviews

There was a joyous sound coming from the pit, which made this night a special experience. It was the harpsichord played with a lush and playful intensity as part of a first class orchestra under the baton of Dr Steven Stanke.

You could close your eyes and feel yourself taken back in time to a court in 18thcentury Europe with intrigue and scandal behind every door.

The Butterfly Theatre’s latest project, Beer Theatre, consists of three two-hander plays, of around half an hour each, presented in the intimate setting of The Wheatsheaf Hotel.  Though each of the plays are focused on very different characters, they have themes and plot points in common. Each one involves a younger character causing disruption in the life of an older one, with strained attempts at affability giving way to darker conflict as the repressed insecurities of both parties rise to the surface.

This show is an attempt to open-up elements of the state criminal justice system to the public using real life ex-offenders and prison staff through the medium of theatre while using actors with a gift for improvisation. It's rather like a television discussion programme meeting Theatresports and also includes invited audience participation.

Brain-child of the super talented Ben Francis, Out of the Blue is a song and dance spectacular that both delights and uplifts. Promise Productions is a new company designed to promote and give opportunity to young performers, whilst raising money and contributing to many charities. Beyond Blue is a charity formed to better educate people and provide support on depression, anxiety and mental illness. A worthy charity, I am sure you will agree, and the one to benefit from Out of the Blue.