Tag Archives: Barely Methodical Troupe

Bromance

★★★★

Assembly Rooms

Bromance

Bromance

Assembly Rooms

Reviewed – 6th August 2019

★★★★

 

“Amico, Gift and Wheeller radiated charisma and charm, while performing acrobatic tricks that pushed the human body to the extreme”

 

This is a thrilling exploration of how far platonic friendship can stretch, quite literally, between a group of men. Barely Methodical Troupe’s production of ‘Bromance’ uses circus skills, gymnastics and a variety of dance styles to paint a complex portrayal of masculine friendship. This three-hander displays the immense talents of Beren D’Amico, Louis Gift and Charlie Wheeller equally, playing to each of their strengths.

The directorial (Eddie Kay) decision to keep dialogue to a minimum was welcome, as it allowed the physicality of the actors to speak for itself. The dynamic use of minimal set, spotlights and atmospheric music further put the focus on the performers. Amico, Gift and Wheeller radiated charisma and charm, while performing acrobatic tricks that pushed the human body to the extreme. A particular highlight was Wheeler’s segment in which he formed a Catherine wheel, which resulted in explosive applause. The performers appeared to defy gravity, moving in formation like synchronised swimmers – it was mesmerising. Audible gasps spread round the audience as Gift was flung like a javelin through the air.

However, underlying the impressive moves was a more tender story, that occasionally got lost amid the audience’s fascinations with the tricks. ‘Bromance’ touches the surface of current ‘hot topics’ such as the toxicity of hyper-masculinity. This is shown when in turn, each of the performers has a moment of being unable to control their feelings, or deal with those of their co-performers. In a way, it seems ironic that the emotional side of the story is overshadowed by the physical aspect of the stunts. While the flips and tricks were spectacular, I would argue that some of the strongest moments of this piece were in the small gestures of friendship extended between the cast – an arm around the shoulder or a tight hug.

This is a very close company, who have rehearsed tirelessly to put on such a slick and innovative production. While all the performers were dressed the same, they each brought a unique set of circus skills and characters to the table. Throughout the performance, there are constant moments of comedy, exposing the tragic humour of trying and failing to live up to society’s expectations of ‘masculinity’. Prolonged periods of awkward silence are counterbalanced with one performer breaking the mould completely and embarrassing himself. Kay’s direction of this was clear as he played with the extreme boundaries of ‘what is deemed acceptable’ between a group of male friends.

This engaging show is laced with moments of humour and intimacy. It is an important addition to the topical debate surrounding ideas of gender.

 

 

Reviewed by Emily Morris

Photography by Chris Nash

 


Bromance

Assembly Rooms until 25th August as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2019

 

 

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SHIFT
★★★★

Shoreditch Town Hall

Shift

SHIFT

Shoreditch Town Hall

Reviewed – 8th May 2019

★★★★

 

“one of those shows that you can see time and time again and enjoy each performance with renewed pleasure and enthusiasm”

 

SHIFT is the latest original production from Barely Methodical Troupe (BMT). Previous shows include Bromance and Kin which have both received much acclaim internationally. The concept of the show SHIFT is from the mind of Melissa Ellberger who also directed and devised the piece alongside Ella Robson Guilfoyle and the four cast members: Beren D’Amico, Esmeralda Nikolajeff, Louis Gift and Charlie Wheeller.

Shoreditch Town Hall is really beautiful. The décor is grand, intricate and fascinating. It’s such a positive migration to have this former civic building transformed into an independent community space. You really feel as though you’re being invited to share in something quite intimate and special when you go there and on this occasion, with BMT, it was no exception.

With no distinct storyline; similar to the format of other physically demanding shows like Bianco by No Fit Safe Circus, the production of SHIFT is a series of movement based episodes, connecting together to create a holistic piece.

This is a wonderful show and so simply crafted. The raised stage was bare (design by Lucy Sierra), with the performers using minimal equipment to play and perform with. The use of light (lighting design by Elliot Griggs) and the beautiful soundtrack emphasised each moment eloquently and often created an otherworldly atmosphere which illustrated the dexterity of the acrobatics all the more.

Without a doubt D’Amico, Nikolajeff, Wheeller and Gift are all complete and utter athletes. The stamina, strength and high energy they maintained throughout the show is a performative feat. They were engaging and funny with a constant awareness of the audience; always involving us into their world. They displayed movements with delicate subtlety and would instantly contrast that with explosive gymnastics. It was an exhilarating experience to witness each jump, flip, somersault and catch achieved and with no safety net. This troupe rely on the trust and experience they share with each other and that wonderful bond radiated from them in every way. Being right there in front of the action, witnessing these amazing four throw themselves skilfully across the stage, pushing their capabilities to the limit, was really awe-inspiring and unexpectedly life affirming too.

A show for all ages and audiences. You will be stunned at the physical dynamism of this troupe. This is one of those shows that you can see time and time again and enjoy each performance with renewed pleasure and enthusiasm.

 

Reviewed by Pippin

Photography by JMA photography

 


SHIFT

Shoreditch Town Hall until 18th May

 

Previously reviewed at this venue:
Madhouse re:exit | ★★★½ | March 2018
The Nature of Forgetting | ★★★★ | April 2018
We can Time Travel | ★★★ | April 2018
Suicide Notes … The Spoken Word of Christopher Brett Bailey | ★★★½ | May 2018
These Rooms | ★★★★★ | June 2018
Busking It | ★★★★ | October 2018

 

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