The Egg Christmas show this year is Rapunzel, a promise of a love story and a retelling of the classic tale with music.
Photo © Nick Spratling
Without question the multitalented actor musician company work their socks off, turning in some excellent performances.
But the retelling of Rapunzel as an orphaned adopted daughter of a herbologist is pushed to its limits with a bewildering narrative which lurches through gun violence, domestic violence and a monologue about austerity.
None of this is the fault of the excellent cast who multi-role throughout. The design by Rosanna Vize also works a treat making the most of the intimate setting.
There are some inspired ideas with dancing foliage whilst Peta Maurice as Paulo (the irritating prince) is an absolute breath of fresh air whilst her Mother Gothel is suitably controlling and disturbing.
Photo © Nick Spratling
Dorian Simpson as Ambrosio carries a great energy and sense of fun through the streetwise “naughty boy” and Joseph Tweedle as Patrizio is a wonderfully love lost Prince in search of his Rapunzel a charming and feisty Samantha Sutherland.
The target audience may well find the mix of styles both chaotic and confusing as much seems to appear without reason through the production.
Whilst the great energy and vivacity of the Knee High hallmark is in place, there is little magic or wonder in this brutal and unpleasant world.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield
Rapunzel, by Annie Siddons and directed by Nik Partridge, is showing at the egg theatre in Bath until Sunday 12th January 2019.
For more information and tickets, visit the Theatre Royal website.
