I first experienced this captivating and totally mesmerising theatrical extravaganza by Outbox Theatre back in September 2017 and what is now abundantly clear is the cast of seven, some of them reprising their roles, are now so polished, expert and profoundly professional, the atmosphere of this gender defining work, with concept and direction by Ben Buratta, is beyond profound, it’s awesome.
The effect imposed on the audience is spellbinding, informative and also in places extremely sexy and all to a heart-pounding, disco-infused, catwalk-inspired ‘strut that body’ soundtrack that really gets under your skin. This is theatre at its provocative best where each of these young and energetic actors are prepared to ‘go for it’.
The incredible mood lighting by Jess Bernberg is completely perfect and when used to explore pain, heartache, confusion and self despair – and being eventually happy – has the desired effect of making the goose pimples come to the surface. There is a running theme through the piece where each character asks “Do you see me?”, and the end conclusion is that we do, and we rejoice in the fact that having a positive agenda with regard to your spiritual, mental and physical well-being has to be celebrated.
It may be the choice of your apparel that offers an insight into your personality but it is your soul that offers an insight into you as a human being. A ground-breaking example of very modern theatre. Immaculate, unique and brilliant. The applause was deservedly loud.
****
Photos by Helen Murray
And The Rest Of Me Floats runs to Saturday 16th March at the Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London W12 8LJ. Box office: 020 8743 5050 bushtheatre.co.uk
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