Review: The Ballad of Backbone Joe

Review: The Ballad of Backbone Joe

Suitcase Royale hail from Australia and this show is a comic homage to the film noir genre as we join a private detective on the trail of a man suspected of murdering his wife. Mixed with rockabilly tunes and songs that commentate on the piece and some interesting shadow work and back projections, this shambolic chaos had the audience whooping their approval as the comedy escalates through the show.

The cast of three begin by setting the scene in song - guitar bass and drums - then each take on their character for the story to be told. Clever lighting and design choices make the most of this blatantly silly story that sends itself up as much as the genre it is imitating.

Some great moments and some of the most inventive props to be seen - entertaining? You bet!