[26
JUL 00] BELGRADE THEATRE NEWS
A Quick
Bash Through The Bible
Stilts,
ostriches, fruit and easily assembled arks are all on show at the
millennium mysteries, but it doesn’t stop a serious point being made.
 The
rapid trawl through the key stories of the Bible is ideally suited to the
ruins of the old cathedral.
At
first everything is a little confusing. The crowd, having lined up along
the centre of the cathedral is immediately ushered to one end to see the
story of Adam and Eve.
After
a quick run through Cain and Abel, things pick up as the performers find
their voice and the ingenuity of the set becomes apparent.
Noah
and his band of helpers build a most impressive looking ark in no time at
all, and there are several funny touches with the animals entering two by
two.
The
crowd is kept on its toes throughout the performance. There are no seats
and actors and bits of scenery whizz in and out of view.
Fail
to stay alert and you could be mown down by a marauding gladiator, an
angel, an arc or even a giraffe.
The
performance, a joint collaboration between the Polish Teatr Biuro Podrozy
and the Belgrade Theatre, changes tack in the second half.
As
darkness falls there is still some humour, but the tension surrounding
King Herod builds up to a chilling climax.
It is
at this point that it becomes clear how excellent the lighting is, and how
well used the cathedral is.
The
crucifixion of Christ (in this instance a wooden model) takes place above
the cross of nails. The bell tower is used, as is a balustrade between old
and new cathedral.
The
millennium mysteries are an interesting mixture of old and new. The only
remaining part of a traditional mummers play is used, and mixed with the
special effects of today.
It is
religious in content, but is suitable for a wider audience. Particularly
those who want to see a turtle on stilts.
Until
5 August 2000. Running time: 2 hrs 20mins.
Performance times:
Mon – Sat
8.30pm
Ticket Prices:
£7
to £10. details 024 7655 3055.
REVIEW
BY ANTONY HOPKER - 26 JULY 2000
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