Reviewer: Christine Stanton
Writer: Jacob Newton
Director: Lucinda Freeburn
“Piratey Perfection”
4.5 / 5
Annabel works as a barista at the local café, harbours a crush on her co-worker Mary and has ‘sorry’ and ‘no problem’ ingrained into her day-to-day vocabulary. She’s never been the type of person to take a stand or command attention, that is until she discovers Anne Bonny – a female pirate in the 1700s who fought and flirted her way through life, never fearing anyone who got in her way.
Writer Jacob Newton’s script combines a modern day romcom, feminist facts from history and music from a live band – and is executed fabulously. By creating a likeable romance story between two charming characters, as well as championing a historical feminist icon such as Anne Bonny, that many may have not heard of before, it adds a unique aspect that completely engages the audience. The concurrent stories of Annabel trying to get closer to Mary, alongside her learning about the escapades of Bonny are written to precision – fast-paced, but yet explored fully, with nothing missed out or lacking in detail. The well-rounded narrative finishes on a high – Newton is definitely one to watch out for again in the future.
Anna Francis (Annabel) is a fantastic lead – she is engaging, endearing and completely encompasses the balance of vulnerability and confidence that her character requires. Her chemistry with Alice Wolff-Whitehouse (Mary) is apparent from the opening lines – both actors showcasing their natural performance skills and relaxed on stage presence. Nathan Whitebrook as the resident workplace knobhead; Cliff, is brilliantly funny – believably hamming up the worst traits of his character for comedic effect, without making himself a caricature.
The band – made up of Loris Scarpa, Sam Lightfoot-Loftus and Susannah Cann are a brilliant addition to the show. They mainly provide background music, which helps to elevate scenes with an atmospheric soundtrack, but they also integrate themselves into the narrative itself with a wonderful creative decision from director Lucinda Freeburn. Scarpa is first introduced as an impatient customer waiting for a coffee, tapping his drumstick on the counter while obnoxiously talking into his makeshift mobile. Cann is the manifestation of Anne Bonny at one point in the show, brashly confronting Annabel and encouraging her to take a stand. These small additions help to give the already talented band an additional platform in the story. (Side note – their rendition of Wiley’s Rolex is fantastic and if on Spotify needs to be sent to me immediately!)
So, make sure you walk the plank to the Lion & Unicorn theatre while this show is still on, because shiver me timbers (sorry, couldn’t resist), it is absolutely brilliant!
Runs Until 30 September 2023
RatedReviewed 