Narcissus an Echo - Theatre in the Mill - 13/10/11

Theatre in the Mill at Bradford University is only a small theatre but as I sit and look at the programme of productions playing there over the next few months, I have to say I'm impressed.

Thursday the 13th October 2011 I had my first experience in Theatre in the Mill when I went along to see Narcissus and Echo - A Chamber Opera.

I have never seen an Opera live before so I had no idea what to expect, and to be honest I don't think I will again any time soon, don't get me wrong, it was good, it just wasn't for me.

Narcissus and Echo tells the story of Narcissus (David Sheppard) who wants to escape from his fans and the always troublesome journalists. Echo (Lizzie Marshall)  is just as eager to escape her work life.  Two Nymphs (Emily Mowbray & Fiona Constantine) are always on hand to absorb what is happening, much like the audience. Narcissus and Echo meet by chance by a lake, Narcissus becomes obsessed with his own reflection in the water while Echo becomes obsessed with Narcissus. At the end the Nymphs capture the tragic events from the sideline through the modern medium of photography which will ensure the tale survives for future generations.

Directed by Chris Hill this version of the classic Greek myth was played out brilliantly by the small cast and the orchestra.

I struggled to see what was playing out when the cast were moving things and using the props low down on the floor, maybe due to my bad seating choice, but I did think they could of just stood up when they were moving things or simply use it higher up.

The smallish box of water ( the lake) did make some wonderful reflections upon the walls and the ceiling, I'm not sure if that was intentional but how could they control the movement of the water?

The cast were perfect in their deliveries and I thought the orchestra were fantastic. I loved the music played throughout the whole show. The music excelled.

Production wise I thought the show was excellent but not a form of theatre I will be venturing back to see anytime soon.

People of London I would advise you to go see it when it plays at London's Little Opera House on Wednesday 19th & 20th October.

Im looking forward to what is coming next at Theatre in the Mill and I advise you all to come down and take a look.