Matthew Bourne's THE MIDNIGHT BELL is a dance theatre event that explores the under-belly of London life in the 1930's. It follows ordinary people as they leave their cheap boarding houses nightly to frequent the bars of Soho and Fitzrovia. The Midnight Bell, one such tavern, plays host to a gaggle of lonely hearts, who engage in love affairs, longing, frustration, betrayal and redemption.
The story is inspiried by the literary works of English novelist, Patrick Hamilton and his true-to-life studies of the working man and woman at his favourite place, The London Pub.
Very much an ensemble production, the cast, Paris Fitzpatrick, Glenn Graham, Bryony Harrison, Daisy May Kemp, Kate Lyons, Michela Meazza, Andrew Monaghan, Liam Mower, Danny Reubens, Christopher Thomas, Richard Winsor and Bryony Wood work together to share the vision of Sir Matthew Bourne OBE.
Sir Matthew Bourne OBE is an award-winning director and choreographer and Artistic Director of New Adventure, producing previous hits such as The Car Man. He has suggested that this might be his last work.
The show itself boasts an incredible set, designed by Lez Brotherston, which moved and adapted throughout the piece in a most spectacular way. It threw us immediately in the world of 1930's London in a creative and innovative manner. I feel as though the set in this piece, really elevated the show and set the scene delightfully.
The plot of the show was, at times, difficult to follow, with many scenes appearing to play out various situations that were not clear to me, as an audience member. Beautifully formed tableau's and movement, but I was left unsure as to what they were trying to depict at times. I, personally, found some of the scenes repetitive, but when the dancing took place, the performers were incredible.
The stage was very dimly lit throughout, highlighting the murky, foggy nights and the music was piercing and uncomfortable. I appreciate the use of music and sound to engage the audience and encourage them to feel certain ways, but I did find it painful to listen to for such a long time.
The costumes, also designed by Lez Brotherston were authentic and nostalgic. The performers really looked the part and again, it heightened their performances delightfully.
The Midnight Bell is on at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford until Wednesday 29th September 2021. It will be touring the UK and finally will take residency at The Sadler's Wells Theatre, London.
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