I knew a lot of people had been worried about the insinuation of blood and gory themes from the promotional photos and the warnings already attached to the play about it containing adult themes and scenes of sexual violence. My friend who I went to see it with, doesn't do horror at all and was quite nervous going into it but I think her love for Kit overpowered any doubts in the end. It's definitely not a play for the faint-hearted and squeamish. Doctor Faustus tells the tale of the titular character who, when introduced to the audience, is a doctor bored of his studies and seeking something more. He calls two famous magicians to summon the devil and makes a deal with him: to be able to perform unlimited, powerful magic through the help of the devil's servant in exchamge for only 24 years of life before he will be taken down to hell. As can be predicted, no good outcome could possibly stem from such a pact and unfortunately having so much power blinds Faustus from many human aspects such as love.
Despite it being more commonly known as Doctor Faustus, the original name of the play by Christopher Marlowe is The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus, which asides from being quite a mouthful, pretty much sets the tone of the entire story. I had no idea that it was an Elizabethan play and honestly got a little confused at the beginning, as this particular production employed a contemporary setting and costumes. Luckily the Shakespearean dialogue only lasted for one scene and I was quickly able to catch on. The way they executed the story was quite rock and roll: funky bursts of music, synchronised choreography and plenty of tongue wagging. Kit fits into this aesthetic perfectly with his wild mop of curls, smudged guyliner and tight trousers, the latter of which he doesn't wear for that long anyway. On the subject of lack of pants, the excess of nudity in the play seems to be quite the hot topic. A lot of reviewers have voiced that they're only flaunting Kit's abs and backside for ticket sales and though I agree it's all rather unnecessary, you can't deny that it's a tactic that works. That said, I do not think this production relies entirely on Kit Harington's physical appearance. Even though thus far the critics have been harsh, there's substance in his performance and he is quite able to carry this lead role. Perhaps the play is lacking in emotional depth but it's quite entertaining nonetheless, there were many extremely witty and shocking moments that kept me on the edge of my seat and the props, lighting, visual and sound effects were pretty darn spectacular. The ensemble cast were also impressive and a highlight of the play for me was Tom Edden's performance, he played quite a few characters but gave each such flare. Overall, I really enjoyed this play and was pleasantly surprised. It's quite funny and stimulating for those of you who like their entertainment, but definitely not for those who are easily queasy.
I'm a huge fan of Kit and Jon Snow, I'd love to see him perform live! Sounds like an interesting play too. I haven't been to the theatre in London in years, so I'm always interested in hearing about the new plays coming out :)
ReplyDeleteHolly xxx
The Twins' Wardrobe
I love this look :) I like the knee high boots. it suits you xx
ReplyDeletecheck out my blog- http://marlenesilver.blogspot.co.uk/
This was such an interesting read, lovely! I am familiar with this story and must say I'm very intrigued by the modern take of this particular play! Have had a look for tickets but obviously all the good seats have been sold out... Would have like to come and see it for my bday on the 2nd of June... Still thinking about it... :) Where about were your seats? xxx
ReplyDeleteDiana
www.diasway.co.uk
You definitely should! I was sat in the front row but it did mean that you had to look up and crane your neck to watch... my friend had seats in the circle balcony and said the view was quite good :)
DeleteThanks, lovely! Will have to have another look at the remaining available seats! Feels like I shouldn't miss this... :) xxx
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