Frau Welt is the wonderfully absurd story of a grand dame of the stage, starring Peter Clements in the title role. This fascinating story, written by Clements with Oliver Dawe, works on many levels because it’s based around mystery, murder and mayhem. You are intrigued as soon as Mr Clements steps out of the shadows and into the spotlight and he delivers an enigmatic, eccentric performance with a real lust for life. His execution of the role adds to a piece of theatre that is exceptional – think Sally Bowles in Cabaret mixed with Joan Crawford in Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? and you are close.
The comedy is dark and sinister and delivered with a mastery of timing that shines through, especially when Clements lip-syncs to the musical numbers, enhancing the message of the performance. This is a moving story of survival in the dark world of the theatre told with true conviction to the material. I do urge a trip to Hackney as soon as you can to experience this wonderful creation.
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Frau Welt is at the Hackney Showroom until 21 October.
Hackney Showroom, Hackney Downs Studios, Amhurst Terrace E8 2BT. Box office 020 3095 9747 or hackneyshowroom.com
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