A Monster Calls – REVIEW

A Monster Calls

The Old Vic, London

 

Seen August 18th, 2018

Reviewed by Jade Prince

★★★★★

This has been on my list of things to see and I thought I wouldn’t have the chance to see it at The Old Vic but I am so happy I did. I was reading everything on-line and everyone was raving about the show. My heart warms when I say that this show did not disappoint. It exceeded so many of those reviews! 

The original book (by Patrick Ness) was aimed towards the children’s literature genre and I have to confess, my childhood was shocking when it came to literature. The books I read were never iconic or influential so it was safe to say that I knew nothing about ‘A Monster Calls’. I didn’t even realise it was a book! It is not the standard storyline. The imagination of a child but the struggles of an adult torment Conor (Matthew Tennyson). I feel it is safe to say that Conor feels alone in this darkening world. His father (Felix Hayes) took off and headed to America, he is dealing with the impending doom of losing his very own mother (Marianne Oldham) and a Grandma (Selina Cadell) determined not to let any family incident knock her off her throne. It focuses on morals, truth and acceptance of ones self. 

The whole show put me in this incredible trance! It was so mesmerising to the point where one of the clock clangs scared the sh*t out of me! Violently slapped me right out of that trance! 

Lets look at the set, I loved the versatility of the white box set. Normally the white box is never used to its full potential however ‘A Monster Calls‘ used every single millimetre. A giant canvas for projections, a way to mask the two-man band (Benji Bower and Will Bower) when needed and then have then on full display in the next scene. It also provided a wonderful back drop for the tree. The shadows cast were super. Occasionally when multiple lights were up hitting the tree from different front angles, a couple of different tree shadows appeared in the background. I am not sure if this was intentional but it was a great addition to some of the stories told by the Yee Tree, especially those that you could picture being set in a forest! 

It was an unusual take on a ‘monster’. The book is aimed at children but the typical monster appearance was not adopted. There were no elaborate costumes or masks or gruesome features to distinguish the monster however the addition of the set itself created this illusion. The human appearance probably made it more terrifying. Monsters aren’t always these huge, grizzly creatures, they walk among you and I down the street.

I went into this show not knowing what to expect. I was in awe when the ropes (which I initially thought were for decoration) morphed into a tree. It was such a unique way of representing it. There was nothing standard about it. Michael Vale was definitely not looking for an easy route when envisioning this! The way it effortlessly travelled around the stage taking different shapes and sizes, just like an actual tree would as its branches are waltzed around by the wind. I take my hat off to the cast having to manoeuvre those ropes. Moving one is heavy, let alone 3-4!

Amongst the ropes was a spectacular dance carried out with so much precision across the stage. Even by those suspended in the air. This was great. For me the child element of the characters came out. I don’t know, it’s kind of the standard thing, isn’t it? Only being able to picture children sitting on tree branches. Maybe…just me, okay.

The script was great on its own however the music was an added bonus. I just kept thinking to myself “I need a soundtrack of this.” It was a mix of both relaxing but also heightened intensity. It was a strange combination however work incredibly well. Music can have a really big influence on a show both positively and negatively. A lot of the times it’s not needed though the decision to include music in ‘A Monster Calls‘ nurtured a completely different depth of the show. Music-wise, they didn’t just rely on the ambient music but also had a very talented woman hidden in the cast who was able to strikingly lend her voice to the story. I didn’t think it could get better and then Nandi Bhebhe started singing. The scene where Nandi was singing in the tree was sensational!

All in all, this is the piece of theatre that everyone is needing to see without even realising it. It’s raw yet so powerful and I think I could honestly keep going with this review. More elements keep popping into my head as I write but I need to stop. The ending had me in tears and when those house lights came up in the auditorium I had this uncontrollable need to break down and cry. Even walking out of the theatre I was willing myself not to cry. But I know I wasn’t the only one like this. A couple of seats over from me a boy, who must have been able 16, was doing exactly what I wanted to do. Hunch over and sob. That my friends is a sign of a bloody marvellous show!

I am so happy I got to see it before it closes.

‘A Monster Calls‘ is at the Old Vic until August 25th so get down there ASAP!

Show and ticket information can be found here.

 

Broken wings – REVIEW

Broken Wings

Theatre Royal Haymarket, London

 

Seen August 1st, 2018

Reviewed by Mark Sykes

★★★★★

Having followed the development of the new musical Broken Wings for quite a while on social media, then obtained the concept album back in May and watched the YouTube recordings in awe of the talent on display, it was with much excitement that I visited the Theatre Royal Haymarket on Wednesday 1^stAugust 2018 for its world premiere performance.  It was a stunning portrayal of a story about love, heartbreak and tragedy, and which leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

I’ll admit that until Broken Wings surfaced as a new musical in development, I had never heard of the poet Kahlil Gibran, the third best-selling poet of all time.  But having worked in Saudi Arabia for 6 months (in part wanting to learn more about their culture), Broken Wings once more sparked my interest in the Middle East and has provided an opportunity to learn a bit more about the culture of this region.

The show has a simple stage setting – the rear half has the orchestra sat either side of a raised element.  In the first act, the older Gibran (supremely played by co-writer Nadim Naaman) is positioned here with his writing table as he narrates his story and watches on as his younger self (played by Rob Houchen) enacts his early life in the front half of the stage.  The first act introduces all of the main characters and provides the setting for Gibran and Selma to meet and form a relationship that ultimately can never be consummated.  I have seen Rob Houchen a number of times this year and he always impresses with his dynamite vocals.  He has great chemistry with Selma, portrayed by the wonderful Nikita Johal.  Nikita deserves special praise as she stepped-up from the ensemble at short notice to take on the lead role, and she performed it with a great sense of assurance and poise.

Selma’s father, Farris (Adam Linstead) and the Bishop (Irvine Iqbal) also provide focal elements of the story.  Whilst Farris can see the blossoming relationship between his daughter and Gibran, he is persuaded by the Bishop to give her hand in marriage to another – and sets in motion a sequence of events that will lead to heartbreak and tragedy.  Whilst Selma is married off to a philandering man she doesn’t love, her friendship with Gibran is rekindled via a series of illicit meetings.  Ultimately though, Selma’s pregnancy and subsequent events (no spoilers here!) provide a devastating conclusion to this love story.

The second act has the staging partly reversed, with the older Gibran at the front of the stage providing narration for some of the scenes playing out on the raised element.  I found this actually worked quite well; the lack of endless scenery transitions kept the story front and centre and continued to flow seamlessly.  Having the orchestra on the stage was nice to see (and neatly dressed in appropriate attire) and was a positive enhancement.  The only negative of the staging was the use of smoke/dry ice.  I felt it didn’t add anything to the story or atmosphere; indeed there were occasions when events taking place in Farris’s garden were almost overwhelmed by the smoke (albeit this was less obtrusive in act 2).

The music, lyrics and orchestrations are really excellent and I would heartily recommend people buy the concept album if you don’t already have a copy.  The stand-out songs are Selma and Spirit Of The Earth.  This latter song (and it’s reprise as part of the Finale) is probably the highlight of the entire show.  It brings the entire cast front and centre in an electric-charged performance that brings a lump in the throat; it compares equally to any of the big numbers in the likes of Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, etc.  Here though, I have to single out Soophia Foroughi who provides the lead vocals for this song and also plays Gibran’s mother.  I am in love with this voice!  If you watch the YouTube video of Spirit Of The Earth you’ll understand, but Soophia is one of those artists that sound even better live.  A simply supreme vocal performance.

The entire cast, including ensemble members, were excellent; there wasn’t a single weak link.  Joe Davison (Conductor) and the orchestra were also faultless; and again it was so nice to be able to see them in a West End show.

As for Nadim Naaman and Dana Al Fardan, they have created something special.  I so much hope that the four days at the Theatre Royal Haymarket is just the beginning for the stage show.  It deserves an opportunity to grow and mature, and to perhaps come back bigger and better.  Yes, I learned a bit more about Middle Eastern life, but people shouldn’t let it’s Lebanese origins put them off wanting to see this.  Miss Saigon has a love story at its heart, with Vietnam as its setting; Broken Wings has similar parallels (as do many other successful musicals).  Put any prejudices to one side and watch and listen to a genuine love story; you will be rewarded well.

Click here to see Hiba Elchikhe (Selma) and Rob Houchen (Younger Gibran) perform I know Now from the Broken Wings original concept album.

If you don’t already have the concept album, you can order it here.

Teddy – REVIEW

Teddy

The Vaults Theatre, London

Seen April 7th, 2018

Reviewed by Jade Prince

★★★★★

Watch out Waterloo Station! If there are disruptions to the trains (and its not caused by South Western Railway for once) then it is because of the Rock ‘n’ Roll coming from below. It’s jolted the tracks! Its a swinging party down there!

This fast pace, on the edge of your seat show takes you back to a Saturday night in 1956. Two teens all glammed up and ready to hit the town. What could possibly go wrong? But it is important to remember ‘Desperate times call for Rock ‘n’ Roll’.

Such a unique show and unlike anything I have ever seen. It is safe to say that I absolutely adored it. Who doesn’t love 50s Rock ‘n’ Roll to start with? You are immediately thrown into a great mood when you take your seats. A trio on stage playing the finest music. This is even before the show began! What a treat we were in for!

The script was incredible. All I kept thinking was ‘this is Dr. Seuss for adults!’ Outstanding! It is poetic beauty and the music is a great addition to the script. It really aids the show and rounds it off in such a gorgeous way. For the majority of the show it really helped heighten the intensity.

It was so adorable seeing the young love fold out on stage. So picturesque! I loved the authenticity as well. Everything had been carefully thought out. Right down to the vintage glass bottles the band used. Little things like that really please me.

The set was stunning and completely at home in the Vaults. Completely stripped back and completely raw. I must admit I had the occasional difficulty in hearing the lines over the music. The acoustics in the vaults aren’t great so the music does have to be a lot louder which is to be expected.

Molly Chesworth (Josie) and George Parker (Teddy) play off each other so well. Such a delight to watch. I did find myself forgetting they are playing teenagers. Some scenes they are so grown up, street wise and ready to take on the world. So strong. Mature beyond their years. Yet, in other scenes they still believed in everything. Molly has the most entrancing eyes. So much naivety and child-like wonder. She had such an impact with her eyes regardless of the acting accompanying it which was great from both parts!

With each number I was wanting to dance. That want was turned into a need during ‘Dance off the blues’. Oh my goodness. That number was totally unexpected. I was not expecting the dance routine. My jaw was on the floor! Incredible moves.

Please, please, please get a ticket for this show. It is outstanding. If you want to be guaranteed a great show and a great time this is the only one you need!

More information about the show and tickets can be found at https://www.thevaults.london/teddy

Be sure to catch it before June 3rd!

A Spoonful of Sherman (UK tour) – REVIEW

A Spoonful of Sherman (UK Tour)

Greenwich Theatre, London

 

Seen March 27th, 2018

Reviewed by Jade Prince

★★★★★

A Spoonful of Sherman retells the story of the talented generations of the Sherman family. Starting with Al Sherman and his success in the 30s and 40s and then slowly moving on to Robert and Richard Sherman who followed in their father’s footsteps, most commonly known as the Sherman Brothers. We are taken on the journey through the highs and lows they faced and the incredible music they left behind to enrich the world. With music from Disney classics such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book to some good oldies, this show is perfect for every member of the family. There is something so wonderful about it which taps into the heart of so many different reasons.

I was blown away from the onset. Everything about this show is wonderful. I knew from the first note sung that we were in for a treat! I need to talk about the harmonies. Oh why word. They were impeccable. They were able to capture the decades so wonderfully. You were transported right back to the 30s and then slowly taken on the journey up to the present day. No gimmicks. Just pure talent. It was so refreshing to see such a raw show which was so polished. It has the west end wow factor with the set and talent yet doesn’t rely on a band or elaborate set pieces. Just two pianos, five narrators (two of which play the pianos), a few props here and there and the change in lighting to create such a beautiful piece of theatre.

When I first looked at the list of musical numbers before the house opened, I was slightly overwhelmed. I had a real worry that this show would go on for hours and hours considering 55 numbers are squeezed in. 55?! I have to say that they have crammed so much of the good stuff into this show. It didn’t feel long at all and had such a great flow. You really hear every thing from every milestone in the Sherman family’s history. The song medleys we phenomenal. They really helped to move the show along and gave it great pace. It all seamlessly blended together.

The first act was all very new to me. I don’t typically listen to music from that era but it was great to hear. It wasn’t until the end of act 1 where I started to get rather emotional and nostalgic. Those where the songs that I grew up with! To quote Robbie Sherman, the creator of the concept of the show:

“If you grew up with Mary Poppins then Mary Poppins was in your DVD player or VHS and you watched it over and over again. This was your baby sitter. A personal friend.” <— The full interview can be found here.

I could not agree more. This show will honestly touch everybody. Those from a young age who are only just being introduced to those Disney classics, to those young adults who grew up with Disney as their babysitter and to those middle-aged and older who might have heard the older Sherman songs but are also experts on the well known Disney numbers thanks to their own children and grandchildren. It is a beautiful family outing which connects every generation.

I also need to take a moment to appreciate the set. Wow! What a set that was! It was so aesthetically pleasing but yet so diverse for this show. It was a white box but without looking like a white box. When the tone of the number changed, so did the set with the help of the lighting. I clearly remember how drastic the change was from “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” to “Wind’s in the East”. It was able to go from a really jolly song to something a lot darker in mood. Gabriella Slade did such a wonderful job! It allowed the pianos to blend in so perfectly and allowed their movements to become part of the show.

Overall this show is stunning and I would urge everyone to see it. Take your family and have a great night out. I will definitely be racing to see it again when it stops in my home town at the end of April. Good, old fashioned entertainment that won’t break the bank.

It is such a stunning legacy to the Shermans and a beautiful was to learn the history of such an iconic family who have touched billions of lives.

All information of the ticket websites for various theatres, dates and stops on the tour can be found here. I have included the current upcoming dates and locations below.

–There is also a cheeky little link to a giveaway we are holding if you are quick and catch it in time! Continue down to the bottom of this post for the link–

Upcoming UK & Ireland tour dates:

5-7 April 2018 – Grand Theatre, Swansea

15-17 April 2018 – Queens Theatre, Hornchurch

18-20 April 2018 – Shanklin Theatre, Isle of Wight

24-26 April 2018 – Octagon Theatre, Yeovil

30 April – 1 May 2018 – Wyvern Theatre, Swindon <–My next dates planned! 

7-9 May 2018 – Lincoln Theatre Royal, Lincoln

14-15 May 2018 – Playhouse Theatre, Weston-Super-Mare

16-18 May 2018 – Northcott Theatre, Exeter

31 May – 1 June 2018 – Everyman Theatre, Cork

2-3 June 2018 – Pavilion Theatre, Dublin

 

We currently have a giveaway active on our twitter page. Click here to enter.

From Numbers to Words: the development of ‘Myth’

I saw Myth back in 2016 at the Cockpit theatre under its previous name, ’27’. For those not aware of this story, it is heavily based on Ancient Greek mythology. More specifically, Orpheus and his encounter with the underworld. As the rock score would imply it is a modern rendition of this historical tale. Over the past two years it has gone back into development. Here, I will be making a note of the changes I notices and whether I personally feel that they were beneficial for the shows development.

–Keeping in line with my other posts, I shall be keeping this very honest.–

I do have to say this right off the bat before we go any further  – I don’t like the new name. It is so generic. My response to the name change was ‘myth, of what?’. 27 was much more catchy and more unique. It gave the insight as to what the show was about without revealing too much and was still enough to spark people’s curiosity. Having spoke to Sam Cassidy after the 2018 show, I still stand by my view. His reasoning behind the name change is valid however I feel it could have been executed in a better way. I don’t feel that Myth markets the show as it should do and is actually underselling it currently. If I hadn’t have previously seen 27 and I had stumbled across Myth’s page on The Other Palace’s website I would have been, “Okay, if I get around to seeing it, I’ll see it”, It wouldn’t have gone straight to the top of my theatre list.

When I saw the show back in 2016 the only real criticism I had was the script. It had a real amateur feel to it. Something which I would have expected to see from a GCSE candidate. I was very pleased to see that the 2018 production had had a lot of work done on it script wise. It seemed so much stronger. Back at the cockpit it wasn’t until act 2 that you actually realised the story whereas now it is made clear from the onset. The script seems a lot more engaging with quick little one-liners throughout. Those did make me chuckle. It was a nice touch having these as the show is very dark so it was almost a relief to be laughing at moments. There was one scene in act 1 where Orpheus meets Hades for the first time in the Underworld and for me that was the weakest part in the script. It seemed incredibly long winded for what was happening. I actually did lose interest and was willing for the next number to start because I knew how great the music was! But to only have this in one part of the show was a great step up.

Side note on the script – I adore the fact they kept the section on “hey, boy. What are you thinking about?”. My heart melted. “You, my favourite thing” Gone. Love it.

I really like the fact the ‘fates’ had more of a presents this time. It felt like they did anyway. It was great seeing a deeper characterisation of them. Atropos being the ‘mummy’ fate and keeping the other two in check and then jumping to the other extreme with Clotho who seemed to be the youngest with a purer heart.

I understand that this was a workshop production so the budget was very limited however I would definitely like to see more of a difference in the reality and the underworld. Just to make things a little clearer on the audience’s side. Same goes with the character appearances. I loved the way the ensemble were predominately in black but I did think Orpheus and the other band members didn’t have a real rock look. They could have easily passed for a mediocre pop group (which, I suppose, is what they are to start with!). I just wasn’t getting that rock star vibe especially from Orpheus.

This 2018 version had a lot of new songs added. Some I was able to catch and noted that they were the new ones but they all blended in so well. Went so naturally together. So much so, some I completely believed had already been in the show. Once again, the music is just incredible. It is always a positive when you come out of the theatre singing the songs. One of the new editions which actually closed the show was great! Definitely the anthem of the show. I mean, it was rather cliche. I really up beat, feel good song but it is a well justified remedy after a show touching on some depressing elements.

The characterisation of Hades definitely changed but I appreciate this will differ from actor to actor. Ryan Malloy gave it a more edgier feel whilst portraying the sinister side. After all, he is the devil! Whereas this time around it was more…annoying. It was the very typical *insert British accent* “proper British devil!”. You didn’t want to hate or like him, rather ignore him.

I know this post seems incredibly negative however I really do want the best for this show. I absolutely adore it and will continuously be raving about it. It has such great potential and I cannot wait to see it blossom into the next West End hit!

I did review the workshop production at The Other Palace is you are interested in reading that too!

Treading Water – REVIEW

Treading Water

Vaults Festival, London

 

Seen on March 4th 2018

Reviewed by Jade Prince

★★★★★

Screw it! I’m going all out and giving this one five stars. A beautifully touching piece of theatre with great humour.

The simple life of two lifeguards. Sue and Carol follow the same routine day in and day out. Their job to watch the world go by, the same view everyday. Including one gentleman who appears each morning like clock work. In a job where nothing very interesting happens, can Sue and Carol change that?

This was honestly such a cute play. I very rarely whip the world ‘cute’ out in my reviews but this deserves it 110%. It was so relatable on so many leaves and I really didn’t believe that awkwardness could look so cute! We have all definitely been in that situation where we have no idea how to approach someone you’re interested in. Should we do it Carol’s way of throwing it straight out there or Sue’s way of taking your time and trying to really understand that person? I fell in love with the three characters straight away which is such a huge achievement for a short play. Within less than an hour I wanted to hug all three of them.

The start of the play seemed very slow. A lot of observing the characters and their little, quirky behaviours. I really did like this aspect especially as I went in not knowing very much about the show. It had me feeling a little on edge and wondering what was going to happen but then I fell into the ‘comfort zone’. The kind of zone you’d associate with routine and structure. It was a beautiful feeling being at the same pace as the characters.

I absolutely adored Carol. We all have a friend like her. So blunt and providing such a wonderfully honest observation on life. This really pulled at my heart strings a little but it was so well balanced with humorous lines.

I have to admit that I was a little confused on the ages of the characters. Carol seemed to be in a very stale marriage (something that I would link with a middle-aged woman) while Sue seems very young and naive. Yet, at the same time then seemed to be very much the same age. It wasn’t anything that troubled me loads. I just distinctly remember having that question come to mind half way through the show.

It was just such a lovely, calm play highlighting so many subtle things in everyday life. No huge drastic plot changes or controversial topics but it worked so, so well whilst keeping an engaging speed. I just felt so refreshed as I left.

I predict big things for this show and I cannot wait to see it again.

Be sure to follow SubtlePaws on twitter for the latest updates on ‘Treading Water’ and their other shows: https://twitter.com/SubtlePaws?lang=en

Also follow ‘Treading Water’ writer, Kathryn Gardner: https://twitter.com/KathrynEGardner?lang=en

Dead and Breathing – REVIEW

Dead and Breathing

The Albany Theatre, London

 

Seen on February 21st, 2018

Reviewed by Jade Prince

★★★★★

I loved every single moment of this show! And that is incredibly rare for me to say!

I was lucky enough to have been invited along to the UK premiere of ‘Dead and Breathing’ at the Albany.  This dark comedy introduces you to Carolyn who is dying of cancer and wants nothing more in the world than to die. An affluent lady is now in the care of her nurse as she has no one left to turn to. The harsh years have spoiled Carolyn’s nice nature but one confrontation between her Christian nurse, Veronika, could be just the thing needed to change all of that.

Lizan Mitchell (Carolyn) was out of this world. Her performance was breath taking. So believable, emotional and raw! It was so beautiful to experience in such an intimate venue. The only person I have seen of that level is Imelda Staunton. She continuously topped her previous scenes.

The show its self was initially a little slow to start with but once the momentum was there it was very enjoyable. I was a little apprehensive at first as to how this show would work what with the topic and given synopsis being very dark. Although the comedy throughout was great! It was so naturally incorporated into the script.

The reveal Veronika made 15 minutes towards the end of the show was completely unexpected (I won’t reveal what it was) and just when you thought the story was over it took another drastic turn and brought it straight back to life, ironically!

Inspired by the show, its the first show with so much life that I have seen in a long time. To start off with I found the story a little dated. That was until Veronika’s reveal and then the whole dynamics were flipped. There was so much relevance which is still seen within todays society and the different generations.

Chisa Hutchinson writing was so engaging. At no point during the show did I feel my attention slipping away. It was gripping. Even one scene with no dialogue for the whole duration of a bed being stripped and made, I was on the edge of my seat watching each character like a hawk. It was great at seeing more of their characters

Side note on Chisa Hutchinson: I personally adore anyone who, on their website, has the tab entitled “awards & shit”

This is one of those shows I shall be raving about for a while! Definitely find the time in your busy schedules to se this one. After all, it is its UK premiere and I predict that it will be the biggest thing everyone will be talking about next year!

The show runs from now until March 3rd and for more information of this show which  you need to see ASAP, just head over to https://www.thealbany.org.uk/event_detail/2203/Theatre/Dead-and-Breathing

The Believers are but Brothers – REVIEW

The Believers are but Brothers

Bush Theatre, Shepherd’s Bush, London

Seen on January 31st, 2018

Reviewed by Jade Prince

★★★★★

This unique one-man show provides a hard hitting take on the social world in which we currently live in. Touching on topics such as terrorism, politics and resentment this performance is thought provoking from the onset. Even before entering the theatre, from just reading the programme, the cogs in my brain were set into motion. The main focus of this show is how three resented men from different walks of life with access to the internet rapidly have their lives changed to accommodate a radical point of view.

(DISCLAIMER – a lot will be revealed in this review so if you are wanting to see the show without any prior knowledge I recommend you stop reading. However if you don’t mind and are still intrigued, please continue reading!) 

Let’s start off by saying this is unlike anything I have ever seen and unlike anything currently out there, 100% with the times and so relevant. It was a slight shock walking into the theatre and hearing the words ‘would you like to join our WhatsApp group to use during the performance?’. This is a unique part of this performance which really added to the topic. It emphasised the fact that everyone is in immediate connection and despite being in a room of say 50-odd people, we were all still completely anonymous. The only identification we had was the first name that would appear on the WhatsApp message if we decided to send one. That was really hard hitting for me, personally. The anonymity of everyone in the room was really felt when we were all asked to message the strangest thing we had seen on the internet. That brought up some strange things! I have to admit that at some points having the WhatsApp messages coming through was slightly distracting and I struggled focusing on what Javaad Alipoor was saying. With the messages coming through it was so difficult to determine what was real and what was scripted which demonstrated the world of fantasy and reality online.

The whole performance was so engaging. It felt like I was watching a documentary. I definitely came out feeling different in a strange way and with a changed view on the social media world. It was an education I believe everybody needs in relation to some of the topics it touched on regarding the type of information you put out online and the repercussion that may have. I do love a good piece that makes you think.

The show itself was very basic. Very raw. It was scripted but the way Javaad delivered the script made it feel like he was having a genuine conversation with you about something he is truly passionate about. There were no elaborate sets (although the set was very pleasing to look at), no extravagant lighting used. Just Javaad on a stage with a desk, a few computers, a microphone and a mesh screen for the projected images. That was another great aspect, having the media displayed in different ways. It wasn’t just an hour of Javaad talking at you.

This is one I would highly recommend and deeply believe that everyone would take something different from the show whether or not it is something that you have an interested in. Ticket prices range from £10-£17.50 and is running until February 10th. More information can be found at https://www.bushtheatre.co.uk/event/the-believers-are-but-brothers/