Life of Pi explodes on the Theatre Royal Stage this week in a rage of colour of sheer visual brilliance.
The cast of Life of Pi | Photo © Johan Persson
The story of Pi and Richard Parker, a Bengal Tiger, are stranded on a lifeboat following a shipwreck is a popular book and film where all appears to be lost but the story slowly unfolds showing the brutality of life and death.
This is a stunning production, with puppets designed and directed by Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell with set and costume design by Tim Hatley.
The concept is unique and the result is an enthralling, at times brutal depiction of Pi’s journey for 137 days adrift.
The lighting and use of projection creates an atmosphere of joy, tension and sterility of the hospital ward, whilst the imposing set turns from a virbant Indian life to a bleak world of a container ship to the open water with ease. It is atmospheric and the colour palate never disappoints.
Pi (Adwitha Arumugam at this performance) is outstanding. Growing in strength and perseverance over the show and capturing the trauma of the event with conviction.
The rest of the company multi role with ease, many of whom operate the inspirational and breathtaking animal puppets.
This is not a production for young children. Whilst Richard Parker swings from sleeping cat to almost dog like companion, he is every inch the killer beast which can kill with ease.
The movement created by the puppeteers ensures they melt away into the body of the animals; their presence is not felt but the impact of their skill drives the story with tears and heartbreak.
It is an absolute must see, there are few productions that feel perfect but the combination of soundscape, lighting and concept rarely comes together with such beauty.
I would happily have sat through it again the moment it finished. Mesmerising and breathtaking with the audience held spellbound throughout.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield
