Homer’s Odyssey. One man. Sixty minutes. Why even try?
It can be done.
And not just ‘done’, but done so superbly well that I could use every superlative in my lexicon and not even hint at how sublime a performance Ad Infinitum’s Odyssey is. In just six square feet, Lecoq trained performer George Mann narrates one of the most famously labyrinthine epics with almost supernatural splendour. Through diverse physical theatre, and versatile vocal sound effects (the only thing he doesn’t do is his own lighting) Mann guides us through Odysseus’ voyages, himself as his only prop. Through contortion and voice Mann creates a series of physical Leitmotifs to distinguish returning characters met on Odysseus’ voyage, so compelling that one dares not blink, lest he miss a single nanosecond.
A gifted performer and a captivating performance, compelling from start to finish, make this show unmissable. Simply outstanding.
Review by Sacha Timæus 28/08/2010
Odyssey
Pleasance Dome
14:50; until the 30th August
