The character
of Philip Astley is brilliantly brought to life by Nicholas Richardson, aided
and abetted by his sidekick Alfie (New Vic stalwart Gareth Cassidy) and his
wife Patty (the gloriously feisty Danielle Bird). Rather than a straightforward
biography, the story is told as a series of scenes from Astley's adventures. The
scene of Philip and Patty’s romance takes place with both suspended from aerial
silks is exquisite in its beauty and works particularly well in the intimate
theatre-in-the-round space of the New Vic’s auditorium.
Every hero has
a nemesis of course, in this case Astley’s friend turned competitor Charles
Hughes (Adrian Decosta), and the rivalry between the two plays out over the
course of the performance. Their encounter in a South London marsh, complete
with squelching mud noises, had the audience in stitches. Musical accompaniment
is provided throughout by a band under the direction of Farhaan Shah and this
adds greatly to the atmosphere.
Two things to
watch for especially are Michael Hugo’s portrayal of the clown Harry Oatcake (in
fact Hugo’s clowning is hugely entertaining throughout) and Siu-See Hung’s
moment of glory as adorable Bert, the Little Military Horse. There is also –
this being Circus – a glittering Finale.
If all of this
sounds a bit like “The Greatest Showman”, well, there are similarities between
the stories of Philip Astley and PT Barnum. Both were strong personalities
driven by a complete belief in what they were doing, and both suffered great
difficulties and setbacks on the way to becoming established. Nicholas
Richardson does call to mind a young Hugh Jackman on occasions as well. The
difference is that while “The Greatest Showman” had a multi-million dollar
budget and plenty of camera tricks, here the Astley story is brought alive by
the magic of theatre and stunning performances from all the cast. The lead
actors perform all their own circus tricks. Here there are no stunt doubles, no
safety nets and no second chances. It's breathtaking to watch.
I learned quite
a bit from watching this production, having been unfamiliar with the Astley
story beforehand. Why does a circus Ringmaster wear a red coat? Why is the ring
exactly 42 feet in diameter? These questions and more are answered as the story
unfolds. 'Astley's Astounding Adventures' is very much in keeping with the New Vic’s
eagerness to tell stories with a significant local interest and the mocking
which Astley received in London society for his North Staffordshire accent is
turned into a joke which runs throughout the production. In Newcastle-Under-Lyme’s
850th anniversary year it is great to celebrate how a man from this unpretentious
town changed the world of entertainment forever.
This is
fantastic entertainment, theatre at its best and a great evening out for all
the family. I loved every minute of it, and it thoroughly merited the warm
standing ovation it received at the end.
Get your
tickets now! If there is any justice in the world 'Astley's Astounding Adventures' will be completely sold out.
Reviewer - Ian Simpson
on - 26.9.23
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