The tale of local resident Philip Astley was expertly brought to life in the latest production at New Vic. Born in 1742 in Newcastle-Under-Lyme, the tale follows the life and times from humble beginnings as the son of a cabinet maker, to a decorated veteran of the seven years’ war through to his exploits as the father of the modern day circus.
The trio of Philip Astley, Patty Jones and Alfie Burrell were played expertly by familiar faces Nicholas Richardson (Tom, Dick and Harry), Danielle Bird (Alice In Wonderland) and Gareth Cassidy (The Card) respectively. They gave a fantastic performance and worked really well together as a trio. Nicholas and Danielle’s performance on the silks was both skilful and elegant whilst Gareth can always make you laugh with just an expression. They really lead from the front and was wonderful to watch.
Michael Hugo (Tom, Dick and Harry) played Zipper (plus a number of other roles) along with Siu-see Hung who also played a number of roles. Both were high energy and very funny. Siu-see was especially funny when in the role of the horse and along with Gareth Cassidy, both were full of expressions that can raise a smile.
Adrain Decosta played Astley’s rival Charles Hughes. A commanding presence on stage and some wonderful aerial and acrobatic work alongside Nicholas Richardson and Darcy Braimoh who played Astley’s son John during the ‘trick riding’ scenes.
There were live action circus performers with acrobatic, aerial and fire skills who wowed during their performances and the whole place was turned into a spectacular event accompanied by the wonderful music played live and lead by Farhaan Shah.
The staging was fabulous and from the very second you walk in you are immersed into the atmosphere even before the performance began. I must also remark on the clever use of the stage, props and the sound effects (occasionally from the actors!) as well as the interchangeability of the characters at times with hat juggling skills.
The whole experience was, as is in the title, astounding. It truly was a memorable night and walking out at the end the audience were in firm agreement as they chatted whilst exiting. The production brought everything together with a performance that is as remarkable as the tale itself.
The audience was packed of theatre-goers young and old and the whole place erupted at the end with everyone off their feet to applaud what they had just witnessed.
Astley’s Astounding Adventures is on until 21st October with a number of matinees available and tickets can be purchased from the box office or online here
Photos by Andrew Billington
