The Ugly Bug Drag Ball by Karma Obscura
During The Ugly Bug Drag Ball’s performance, we got to witness a charming cabaret with a range of different talents. Surprisingly informative, this drag show features a range of different bugs with a host of talents. From the dazzling butterfly to the morbid black widow, the acts were creative, funny and impressive. I highly recommend going to see the show before it gains fame, as I see such a unique style of drag going far.
The Untold Fable of Fritz by Unsettled Theatre
With impressive prop work and puppetry, this tale of love and sacrifice comes alive. Played by only three actors skilfully moulding into a range of different characters, the play is magically resourceful, and fantastically whimsical. It holds a range of emotions – it is funny but also meaningful, and could teach adults, as well as kids a thing or two. Overall a poignant story of what a father will do for his son.
Anatomy of Pain by Disquiet Collective
A powerful insight into living with chronic pain. It’s a harrowing taste of everything that comes with a chronic illness, and how all enveloping it is. The loneliness is palpable – conveyed through the disconnect between the two actors, who were cleverly placed in front of and behind the audience. With one animated and engaged in the visuals on the screen, and the other static and distant. Overall, it’s a well-paced show with a good rhythm, convincing actors and an important story to tell.
Witch Me Back! by Nya Paraplyteatern
A lively performance with an impressive cast – Witch Me Back put together a wonderful English rendition of their originally Swedish play in only 4 weeks, and it was a riot to watch. Very funny, and with a heartwarming message about one little troll trying to assimilate into witch culture, it will leave you feeling warmed. The main character and her adult counterpart complimented each other very well. The other actors also had great chemistry, which would prove vital to the communication of the play. Overall a heartwarming and hilariously funny watch, perfect for families.
Now More than Ever by Alauda Dance
An emotive and dynamic performance with an important message about our endangered wildlife. I found myself so captivated by the movements of the performers that I forgot it was the performers making them, and not in fact a tree or a flower or fox. I wish the performers would have more faith in their communication, as they communicated perfectly their characters without the need for visuals. The sound design was heartfelt, and it made both the group and solo performances shine. And with each reminder of the beauty of nature, I felt uplifted to take action. An overall heartening, important and uplifting experience, and a pleasure to watch.
Anybody Out There by KINGSTON ONSTAGE
A dramatic performance with a wonderful selection of well thought out characters. The play feels like the natural progression of SKINS, with fast moving, relevant storylines about the lives of various uni students. It’s a well paced show with a characterful and resourceful set, and compelling acting from each and every character.
Quiz Night at Vaginus Hemingway’s Cabaret Rathole by Lara Cosmetatos
A confusingly beautiful depiction of existentialism with a wonderfully vibrant host. The performance was captivating, taking you on many turns throughout its run, and bringing the audience into a world in which they might be preparing to see the end. Or perhaps just the end of this waiter’s life as he knows it. The sadness and dread felt very important, even if it was not clear what they stemmed from, and were conveyed beautifully through operatic singing, modern dance and conversations to someone who’s not really there. A thought provoking watch to be sure.
WHATTHEHELLISGOINGON by G.O.W.D
A daring new take on plays altogether, in which the audience is required to take instruction throughout, and occasionally make their own rules. It felt like I was back in acting school as I waddled around the floor like a chicken, and explored the first steps of a Lord of the Flies retelling for adults Overall more like a workshop or experiment, but that’s ok, as you are invited to join the collective if you so wish. And if you’re looking for your next adventure, I suggest you do.
The Roman Invasion of Ramsbottom by Thames Music Theatre
A delightful cross between Narcissus and Coronation Street. With a cast of multi-talented young actors, singers and dancers, this play shines onstage. It had all the classic beats of a story – a hero, a bad guy, a romance and a chorus of cheerleading Romans. Although a simple formula, it had effective storytelling. I must admit a lot of the humour went over my head, but my northern friend was chuckling heartily next to me, and I really appreciated the acting from the comedy duo of soldiers. Overall an incredibly talented young cast, good writing, fun props and great music. A fantastic play for kids and adults alike, and an especially great play for northerners.
Dillon Dance Youth
Dillon Dance is back at FUSE International with an incredible, immersive show about the sickness choking mankind. It’s a captivating show with emotion pouring from each dancer while they tackle these challenging topics. The spectacular lighting, soundtrack and special effects are a highlight of the show, which is overall brilliant, even if the themes were literal at times. A striking watch, and a pleasure to see young talent perform with so much passion.
