Voilá Europe!, The Cockpit & Rich Mix - ★★★ - Until November 17, 2019


Voilá Europe! is a season of European fringe theatre companies coming to London; it is now in its seventh year and includes 24 companies. The UK and London in particular has an amazingly vibrant fringe theatre and the opportunity to welcome small visiting groups is extremely laudable. We saw just two of the highly contrasted pieces presented at The Cockpit. Lighthouse is an exceptionally unusual conflation of dance and aerial work; the portrayal of society's love/hate relationship with plastic is conveyed in Hazel Lam's performance as she swarms high up the hanging PVC tubes.The soundscape surrounding the performance adds greatly to the whole ambiance. The Medea Hypothesis Is more difficult to assimilate as it conflates the Medea myth with climate change issues. The actress playing Medea expresses much of the internal torment of a woman's tortured relationship with her unseen son and her husband, Jason. Drawing climate change into the mix gives the piece a modern twist. However, the play comes across as somewhat disjointed especially when split by numerous protracted scene changes. There are, however, some striking images. Challenge is what theatre is about and Voilá Europe! should be applauded for their ambition and dedication.

Reviewed by D.S.J.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until November 17, 2019
Various times
The Cockpit & Rich Mix
Nearest tube: Edgeware Road
https://www.voilaeuropefestival.com/sales
Map & Location: 7 St Andrew's Hill, London EC4V 5BY, UK

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