A witty nostalgic performance
Buyer and Cellar is a great concept, inspired by Barbra Streisand’s underground mall on her sprawling estate, we join Alex Moore (Rob Madge) as they work for the legend.
The conceit is articulated from the beginning, we’re warned that this is all imagined which takes a little of the weight out of the show. It also means it leans heavily into feeling like a “bit”.
Madge is gloriously enigmatic as Alex, flipping between characters and arguably himself in moments, a few self referential nods here and there. They really are a skilled performer and are able to negotiate laughs out of some maybe dated references.
The set from Ingrid Hu is simple but effective in a space like Kings Head, it doesn’t feel busy or too sparse. Helped by Jack Weirs lighting design which impressively implies movement and theme throughout.
Plot wise I’d be interested to know how this show translates to those not in the main audience demographic, it’s stuffed to the brim with in-jokes and references but there were moments which made this show inaccessible unless you were in the arts.
Additionally the show is long for a one act. Billed at a 1hr40 run time we came out at 2hr05.
If you’re a fan of Barbra and beautiful intimate performances you’ll love it.