Showing between Tuesday 10th and Saturday 14th March 2009 @ Hippodrome, Bristol

Whether you’d regard yourself as a fan of theatre or not, if you’ve never witnessed the utter brilliance of Kneehigh live then you’ve missed out. They are a Cornwall based theatre company that break down all the boundaries of conventional performance and think so far outside the box it is but a forgotten speck on the horizon; whilst all the time remaining completely accessible and utterly engaging.

Their latest show, Don John, is no different. The action follows the rebellious, carefree and irresistible Don John (an extreme version of John Travolta in Grease) living life in the fast lane. He burns through town after town clad in leather, chalking up a list of drink and drug fuelled nights and bedded women, leaving his mark wherever he goes. He is the vessel for all our desires, but also our fears; becoming violent, dangerous and ultimately alone.

His mindless, selfish and ruthless existence is starting to catch up with him though and as he seduces a venerable Christian girl and a bride-to-be, what will the repercussions be? Will he care? And who will be left to pick up the pieces?

This is classic Kneehigh – emotional and exciting, sexy and suspenseful, provocative and passionate and all with a weaving and absorbing storyline. The action happens all at once; powercuts, gunshots, electric shocks, stag parties, sex, rape, explosions…all boiled together in the cauldron of the glamorous Hippodrome. The breathtaking set is a fantastic mix of abandoned circus and derelict dockyard full of character, the stage strewn with huge, steel shipping containers. The action imaginatively takes place all over it, often at the same time; high, low, inside, outside and throughout the stalls and auditorium.

By the end of it all, you are left breathless but utterly, utterly fulfilled and entertained. Right now I can’t think of a better, consistently brilliant theatre company out there than Kneehigh. A must see.

www.kneehigh.co.uk

Matthew Whittle www.matthewwhittleblog.blogspot.com