Review: Ovid's Metamorphoses

Ovid's Metamorphoses has been adapted to a world war two setting in
this actor-musician extravaganza from new company Pants On Fire.
Classic tales of the devious Cupid and flawed Icarus are reconstructed
in an inventive and accessible way. A range of musical instruments are
used and are swapped between cast members. Actors take turns to lead
the action and head the band.

Most exciting is the relentlessly innovative direction whereby props
and set as simple as plain white screens are utilised in contrasting
ways to depict the plethora of setting needs. A swimming pool scene is
particularly inspired.

While there are no songs you a likely to return home singing, this is
hardly a weakness as the all-encompassing nature of the music with
underscoring successfully creates the appropriate atmosphere. This
multi-talented group have found a completely individual style and
hopefully they will continue to create original adaptations in future
years.

19/08/2010