Theatre Review: Life of Pi, Bristol Hippodrome
Summary
Rating: ★★★★★
Running Dates: 15 January - 20 January 2024
Where to see it: Bristol Hippodrome
Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes (including interval)
Keywords: Puppetry, Journey, Hope
Whether you're a recent viewer of the film, a long-ago reader of the book, or completely unfamiliar with the storyline, "Life of Pi" is a guaranteed source of awe.
Embarking on a journey from India to Canada aboard a cargo ship, ‘Life of Pi’ takes a dramatic turn when the vessel encounters a ferocious storm. In the first act, Divesh Subaskaran embodies the role of Pi, seamlessly handing over to Keshini Misha in the second act, as both find themselves stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger for nine months.
From the very commencement of the stage show, the audience is transported to the vibrant landscapes of India, where the room comes alive with exquisite stagecraft. The meticulous attention to detail is evident, as butterflies gracefully flutter past and leaves dance in the wind—details that shouldn't escape your notice should you decide to experience ‘Life of Pi’ on stage.
The set's transformation into the heart of the ocean, with the small lifeboat taking centre stage, is just the beginning of the visual spectacle. Transitions between scenes are flawlessly executed, seamlessly transporting you from solid ground to the vastness of the sea in just seconds.
The cast delivers incredible performances infused with genuine emotion and well-timed touches of comedy. Divesh Subaskaran's chemistry with his on-stage family shines brightly in the first act, and despite unforeseen circumstances leading to Keshini Misha's stepping in, her portrayal takes the audience on an emotionally charged journey, unfolding a captivating relationship with the tiger as the story progresses.
Enter Cook, portrayed by Peter Twose, a quintessential 'baddie' whose grumpy French accent and blood-covered attire add an extra layer of tension to an already chaotic voyage.
A noteworthy mention is due for those responsible for bringing the tiger to life on stage. The sounds, looks, and movements are so convincingly executed that it becomes easy to forget there isn't a real tiger present – from the flicks of the tail to the meticulous cleaning of paws. The performance is seamless and incredibly lifelike.
The music and sound design further elevate the storytelling, enveloping the audience in Pi's world with an immersive and compelling experience.
For avid readers of the novel, rest assured that the stage adaptation captures the tension, humour, and reflective nuances found in the original work.
In summary, "Life of Pi" transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, offering an unforgettable journey that lingers in the hearts and minds of the audience long after the final curtain falls. Don't miss out on this extraordinary experience!
Standout Moment: The Tiger - incredible
See if: You want be taken through an emotional journey, full of tension, love and loss (no spoilers!)
Last Impression: An amazing journey, I would recommend this to all
Written by Francesca Hepburn