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Tipping Point

As the eyes of the political world turn to Scotland and the upcoming G8 summit, the theatre community has been stirred to voice there own opinions on various political issues, or in the case of 7:84 using other people's voices.

Taking transcripts from various community activists campaigning on varied subjects: from the environment to housing and some of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown's political speeches. This is all beautifully cut together and edited by Davey Anderson, and all adds up to a wonderful piece of political theatre, where the voice of the "wee man" is heard clear and concisely while the politicians use jargon and gobbledygook to try and flummox the public.

Starting off with the song that brought hope to a generation, Things can only get better, Mr Blair, played wonderfully by Paul Cunningham, enters stage left with his traditional wave and cheesy grin going straight into speeches about how the Labour government is helping the poor of the world. What follows is an intelligent and witty play looking at peoples hopes for the future, why the demonstrations at the G8 summit are important and how these big issues affect us all. As one character says "think globally, act locally and if everyone does well it'll work.”

Lorenzo Mele's direction is simple and direct letting the language stand alone, which it does with crystal clarity. 7:84 have returned to the past with Tipping Point, creating a piece of living newspaper that engages directly with the audience packing a punch on some highly political topics, yet still retaining it's human element as well as a number of lovely comic moments.

Theatre like this leaves an audience buzzing with chatter, wanting to tell there story and situation, whilst realising that politics are everywhere, affecting each and every one of us. Something like this should be performed to politicians, let them see the issues that the nation are passionate about; after all if they listen another world is possible.

18 June 2005
TIPPING POINT
7:84 Theatre Company
Written by Davey Anderson

 

Review © Bryan Johnston, June 2005