A Japanese tragedy about mermaids, the first thing you'll appreciate is the beauty of the setting - the venue itself was extremely well presented for the production; dark with ethereal lighting, a small amount of props including sheets and Japanese masks, and a single piano on which the simple yet evocative soundtrack is portrayed, at times clearly drawing on the clashing semi tones of Eastern folk music whilst at other times coming closer to Western pop influences, almost sounding like a Disney musical in parts. Take note, the venue has no heating - so wrap up warm!
The cast were all very talented, with exceptional singing voices and all were very apt at performing the dance like sequences that so effectively conveyed the emotions of particular scenes. I was particularly taken in by the movements of the cast when acting on behalf of one of the intricate masks they were behind, and how they used body language to aid the dialogue so well.
I've seen little Japanese theatre before, but it definitely feels as if Studio Ghibli has crated a play here, which is no bad thing. Full of wonder, fear, happiness and sorrow I really recommend this to anyone who likes to see something different from time to time.
You can find out more about the company, play, cast and more at the Theatre Lapis Facebook page.
Thanks for reading.
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