Visually and Aurally Stimulating Piece of Physical Theatre
Into a cultural melting pot, take three versatile, multi-talented performers, a musical soundtrack blending classical music, soul, jazz and pop, and a thirteen foot scaffolding frame and what is the result? A visually and aurally stimulating 30 minute piece of physical theatre, which captures the imagination with an intimate medley of words, song, music, mime and movement. Dirty Little Secrets is an original devised piece by singers/actors Harper Ray and Lucinda Ryan, inspired by a song, The Magpie, composed and performed by the Shane Cullinan Ensemble - 20 musicians and vocalists. In contemporary opera-ballad style, it reveals the story of Mrs. Janet Gordon, a reclusive lady of the night, who has come to be obsessed not only with the company of men but with obtaining everything that sparkles.
Two actresses play the double-sided personality of Mrs. Gordon, first, the beautiful, youthful, slender young woman (dancer Helen McManamon) in glittering high heels, "I am 40 but could pass for 28", she sings to us, from the top bar of the scaffolding, while down below, the curvaceous middle-aged madam, (Ryan) be-wigged and powdered with luscious red lips, seduces men and steals their silver watches. In the centre is the prancing, preening dandy-boy, who flits and flirts between the Magpies, tempted and teased in return. The mood moves between innocence and the secrets of decadent morality, hidden behind closed doors and curtained windows.
Think of Peter Greenaway's classic film, The Draughtsmen`s Contract, together with its haunting gothic music, and you'll get a sense of this stylised modern slant on restoration comedy. The three performers each have very distinctive theatrical styles and skills drawing us into this strange secret world of Mrs. Gordon and her night-time adventures. At its heart however is the stunning music by Shane Cullinan, which controls the dramatic pace and emotion. Entertaining, intense and captivating, on many levels, this is an operatic, acrobatic dance which will seduce your soul.
When and Where
Runs to 24th August, 11.55am daily at C venue Central (venue 54), Carlton Hotel, North Bridge. Presented by The Midas Group.
Return to Index of 2003 Fringe Reviews.
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