Introducing a new segment to both Theatrefullstop and New Ottawa Critics. As two independent blogger collectives, we are both inspired by what theatrically is happening beyond our borders. Each month, we will correspond with all the latest happenings in our cultural cities. This is an opportunity to learn, be inspired, communicate and collaborate!
Tessellating masses of bodies fly everywhere. Bright, exotic colours fill the stage. A projection gives a clear image of the world we are in. Soho, a place full of class, sleaze, seduction, style and warmth; an area I frequent often. Stufish have created a piece that blends many mediums of performance; through circus, theatre, dance, and martial arts the audience are taken on a journey along the exciting streets of this well-known location.
Courtesy of Stufish.
Before pursuing a career in acting, Phina Oruche graced many a fashion campaign, most notably for Gap and worked alongside the modelling holy trinity; Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington. Oruche’s career however wouldn’t stop there as she’d later pursue a career in television, taking on various roles including the self assured Liberty Baker in the ground breaking Footballer’s Wives. Oruche is now taking on another role; that of writer in her debut show Identity Crisis. Read on to find out more about the show.
The questioning of identity is a continual inherent battle we all fight. How we may perceive ourselves isn’t necessarily how others will. But do we aspire for these various perceptions of ourself to align so that we’re all singing from the same hymn sheet? Or do we embrace that identity is multi-faceted? Actress, model and theatre maker Phina Oruche‘s Identity Crisis addresses this mercurial phenomena.
Courtesy of Ovalhouse Theatre.
In her new production of Salomé, South African director Yaël Farber rejects the character painted by 19th century writers such as Oscar Wilde and creates a nameless resistance fighter instead whose actions lead to major political upheaval in the Middle East.
Dean Street. Soho. 1958. The Atlantic Club is the heart of seedy, claustrophobic, drug-fuelled clubbing. Fevers are running high as a gang of misfits sweat it out over the kidnapping of Silver Johnny, a rock star on the road to stardom. Then, when their manager is brutally murdered, the club is placed under siege. Mojo, an anarchic black comedy which sticks to its characters with the sweat beads it creates.
Courtesy of The ADC Theatre.
Breakin’ Convention is the award-winning and critically acclaimed organisation that represents the origins and evolution of Hip Hop culture from around the world and around the corner. Working with the most respected, innovative and inspirational artists, Breakin’ Convention seek to position Hip Hop dance alongside more historically established art forms, through our world-renowned international festivals, professional development, youth projects and educational programme.
Engineer Theatre Collective strive to create visually striking, ensemble-led theatre by closely collaborating with designers and by using a combination of physicality, space and sound. Engineer Theatre is strongly influenced by Lecoq. Their previous show Run has been nominated for Best Director and Best Ensemble at the Off West End Awards 2016.
Courtesy of The Engineer Theatre.
Mayerling is The Royal Ballet’s revival of the 1978 creation by Kenneth Macmillan. Federico Bonelli’s portrayal of the Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria-Hungary is mesmerising. In particular the scene where the Prince is trying to make it up with his wife Princess Stephanie, played by Meaghan Grace Hinkis, on their wedding night, is powerful and intense. The dancers’ bodies showcase a feat of supreme strength, the sequence before he takes his newly wedded wife to bed, is one of the best between Bonelli and Hinkis.
Courtesy of the Royal Opera House.
Funny Girl is the semi-autobiographical story of Fanny Brice, whose vocal talents and comedic genius see her rise from Brooklyn music hall singer to Broadway star. It first opened on Broadway in 1964 and provided Barbara Streisand with her big break as the original lead role. Funny Girl is now touring the UK, across twenty two cities from February 2017.
Courtesy of Marlowe Theatre.