Edward Scissorhands

I just saw this production a couple of weeks ago and it has been haunting me ever since. Matthew Bourne adapted the classic Tim Burton film into a dance-play. It really is one of the most moving things that I have seen. I have always had a soft spot in my heart for the film, and this production is a great re-telling of it. I did have a few complaints about some minor story changes, but overall I highly recommend this show. 

The dances work perfectly with Danny Elfman's music and the set design and new music capture the Burton feel on stage. The choreography was stunning, poignant and at times surprisingly humorous. This all combines to be a highly emotional evening at the theatre. Having seen the film several times, I was not expecting to be emotionally moved as I was at seeing this production. I was very very moved by the ending. I won't ruin anything because it took me by such a surprise.

Rustin Allison

Brief Encounter

I just went to see the production of Brief Encounter this past weekend. I absolutely loved it! The play is based on the classic British film (which I have not seen, but I plan to now). The story follows the tale of two married people who meet by chance at a railway station. They know they cannot fall in love... but do. The relationship is brief and heartbreaking.

This play closes in London on 16 November. I wanted to see a production this last Saturday and went for the cheapest tickets at the TKTS booth in Leicester Square. What a bargain! I wish I could go see this show again! The production involves film and live music. It takes place in a old movie theatre with ushers! Just going into the theatre takes one back to 1938. The theatre is Art Deco in design. The house manager is dressed in a tux and the ushers perform songs around the theatre on ukulele, trumpet and bass. The actual production itself is a mixture of film, music and theatre. Live action moves to film and back and music is intertwined throughout. The show, although heartbreaking, is also really funny with some great comic moments. I have heard rumors that this may go to Broadway... if it does, New York audiences are in for a treat!

Rustin Allison