Engaging and entertaining classical chaos and a mythological rollercoaster that’ll leave you in splits!
Charles Court Opera and Jermyn Street Theatre join forces to create Odyssey: A Heroic Pantomime, an epic adventure that takes a wild spin on the literary classic, the Odyssey. Rewriting the heroic tale with a mixed up plot turned the Odyssey into a rollicking pantomime extravaganza throwing the tradition overboard. The Boutique Pantomimes have long been a Christmas tradition for the city and this one takes its viewers on a journey to find the lost ruler, Odysseus.
The fab five cast, including the versatile performers Amy J Payne, Emily Cairns, Meriel Cunningham, Rosie Strobel, and Tamoy Phipps, are like a theatrical dream team. With a sprinkle and a dash of hilarity, they transform into a multitude of characters, each more entertaining than the last. And let’s not forget the percussion, Dave Jennings, who adds the beat to this mythological mashup.
This unique take on the classic tale is not just a theatrical adventure; it’s a comedic rollercoaster where humour reigns supreme. The jokes come at you rapidly, leaving little room to digest the puns on contemporary issues. They hit the room in sporadic bursts, potentially the only connection for those who are not acquainted with the historical context. Concentration is key because the punchlines are flying at you like mythical creatures on a caffeine binge, but with a certain sense of unknowingness if one is not familiar with the classical literature.
The visuals are humorous, with the performers hitting the stage flaunting ensembles with undeniable flair, showcasing their creativity through inventive costumes. Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine, steals the show with a quirky look featuring a drinking helmet, a straw, and a platter. The costumes aren’t just outfits; they’re statements.
Currently staged at Jermyn Street Theatre, the proximity to the stage and the delivery of the performance makes you feel like an integral part of the show. Trust me, if you want a front row seat (without the awkward neck craning), you’re practically in the thick of the action! The stage is so close, you could probably join the cast for a dance number. With that being said, the show leaves you with a delightful abundance of surprises, dance-worthy moments, and a happy spirit to carry away with you. Did I have a good time? Hell, yeah!