Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating: * * * * *

Cast: Clare Beresford, Dominic Conway, Miriam Gould, Charlie Penn, Tom Penn, Eugenie Pastor, Alexander Scott, Shamira Turner.

Little Bulb Theatre has certainly come a long way since forming in 2008 as students at the University of Kent. Now an award winning company they continue to produce exciting and innovative theatre.

For audiences that may not be familiar with the tale of Orpheus, then fear not as the cast of this talented crew tell the story in their unique way. 1930s Paris is the setting and legendary musician Django Reinhardt has been cast in the lead in a new production of Orpheus. Yvette Pepin is the host for the evening and with her troupe of operatic players she performs the thrilling tale of Orpheus’s ill fated decent into the underworld to reclaim his lost love, Eurydice.

From beginning to end, this show grabs the audience and keeps all engrossed, not just with the amazing musical score and incredible vocals but also the humour and physicality. The story is split into acts and each member of the cast takes on different characters that Orpheus meets. Inspired by the music of Django Reinhardt, director Alexander Scott has fictionalised him and through Reinhardt’s amazing musical talent has incorporated the romance of Orpheus and Eurydice through music. Dominic Conway plays Reinhardt, a non-speaking role but one in which he captures all of our hearts. Never has the guitar been so prominent in telling a story, but that is exactly what it seems to do. This whole story is told through music and as each act passes, it builds and builds. From Eugenie Pastor’s charming hosting skills to the unexpected vocals from Tom Penn, together this cast blew the audience away.

The set is kept simple though effective, and there is a wonderful atmosphere created by the live music. With a mix of Hot Club Jazz, opera and French chanson there is something that everyone will like in this production.

Going to the theatre should be an emotive experience, and what Little Bulb Theatre has created is definitely that. This is a great show for the next generation of musicians, writers and actors, and one that will inspire to create and produce remarkable theatre.

Orpheus runs until 24th October. For tickets and information about the show please visit: https://www.everymanplayhouse.com/whats-on/orpheus

Janie Phillips