Student performances at The Oxford Playhouse seem to have taken a turn towards stripped back sets. Peach Productions’ Into The Woods continues this trend, presenting audiences with a fairytale told on a bare stage. This seems like an interesting decision that relies on the ensemble. But, does this show succeed?
reviews
She Swore To Never Kill Again
Written from three perspectives, Cruel & Bitter Things is the story of Gwynn Denning who seeks vengeance on a successful business man for date raping her friend when they were at university. And by vengeance yes I do mean that she killed him. But murder tends to get messy.
Men Don’t Wear Pink
Straddle tells the story of a boy coming to terms with his sexuality, a story we have all seen a hundred times before, particularly in this Fringe style. The challenge in moments like these is to find a way to create something that doesn't feel like a story we know.
Are You with the Witch?
To say Darkside was a play is selling it short, rather it was a blending of mediums. As a reviewer I seek talent, innovation and quirks, but ultimately I look to be moved, to experience something new that makes me think differently about theatre. This was one of those moments.
Can I be Vulnerable With You Guys?
This was a piece of art that determinedly saw how far it could push things, leaning into stereotypes and behaviours that many find repellant in order to find their comedic value. The intimate venue of the yurt was perfect for a comedy set, allowing Horn to interact with the audience.
The Course of True Love Never Did Run Smooth
The first and most important rule of a garden play is that it must be fun. Let The Playhouse and The O'Reilly have their serious shows, the Trinity term garden play is an opportunity for a laugh both as cast and audience. This is a rule that the Trinity Players took to heart, director Alex Evers.
My Story is one of Betrayal and Deceit
Court life is one of backstabbing and allegiances, where every decision you make could dictate the difference between life and death. This idea is the central premise to Raynes' Virtue's Cloak, a play which traces the trial of Robert Carr and Francis Howard for the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury.
Anything can Happen in the Woods
Every year the city is graced by an array of garden plays, but it is in the gardens of The Queen's College that audiences can find Into the Woods. Central to this musical is humour, which leads to a fun night and welcome relief from the pressure of Trinity Term.
Sitting in the Dark
Whether you view Oxford Drama as a clique or not, there is no denying that it is a community. For the brief time that you are part of a show, or the society as a whole, you make lasting friendships and have quite the array of memories to take away.
I’m Always Acting
Stepping through drapes we entered a tent within which the thrust seating and Essendine's flat were cosily contained. I have reviewed many a show at The Pilch and never has one succeeded in escaping the feel of that underground room... until now.
Wild Rose and Pearls 