I have to admit I might be one of the few people who have not read the book (80 million copies sold) or even watch the film! Not quite sure how it passed me by.
However, it was for this very reason: to be able to watch the stage production of Da Vinci with fresh eyes was an amazing experience! The storyline was gripping and I was transfixed all the way through.
The press summary:
Professor Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu embark on a pulse-pounding quest across Europe. When a brutal murder in the Louvre Museum uncovers hidden clues within Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpieces, the duo must unravel a web of intrigue that could alter the course of history… Uncover the twists and turns of ancient secrets, relentless rivals and coded messages in a quest to protect a secret that could change the world forever.
The initial thought is how do you adapt such a famous book, a dramatic Hollywood film into a stage production with limited space? Well, Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel have managed to capture the essence of the story whilst keeping the thrill and the drama along with Director Chelsea Walker and Designer Alys Whitehead who have created the fast-paced fluid nature of the Da Vinci environment.
Everyone needs praise for this production, the actors were high class brilliant actors who were enthralling, engaging and delightful. Particular mention for Joe Pitts as Silas with his convincing devotion to pain and suffering.
However the top praise must go to the set and its capacity not only to represent multiple locations but to incorporate the numerous codes and clues with added dramatic effect to increase levels of intrigue.
Between the fluid set and the simple visual effects the audience was able to be transported to many locations, which included galleries, churches and mansions. The big set of steps in the middle, the walkway and two side panels were seemingly the only fixed parts of the set, everything else moved around: screens and props were raised and lowered from the ceiling, panels were slid, moved, hidden and revealed to the point where we thought ‘where did that come from?’, minimal yet effective props were seamlessly brought onto the stage. Yes there were some setting of scenes, however many flowed with the storyline and happened while your eyes were directed elsewhere.
The use of visual effects for the clues was simple and clever, and the display of Da Vinci paintings was essential and great to see. It was also used to show the audience close ups of the artefacts which was a bonus as we actually get to see what the actors were holding and talking about.
I completely enjoyed everything about this show, production and performance and I honestly cannot fault it. This is a highly recommended show and I urge you not to miss out.
Cast:
Robert Langdon – Joe Bannister
Sophie Neveu – Georgia-Mae Myers
Silas – Joe Pitts
Jacques Sauniere – Richard Clews
Sister Sandrine/Marie/Docent – Sherry Baines
Teabing – Philip Bretherton
Remy/Philip/The Clerk – Joshua Griffin
Bezu Fache – Anthony Ofoegbu
Collet/Vernet/Volunteer – Louise Mai Newberry
Photography by Manuel Harlan
Playing at Mercury Theatre Colchester until 24th May – click here for more information.
With thanks to Mercury Theatre, Colchester & in association with Grapevine.
Watch the video review on YouTube.