Club NVRLND theatre review: An immersive and unique theatrical experience
The 80-minute musical extravaganza based on Peter Pan includes live pop performances and themes of growing up
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Assembly Checkpoint is transformed into a 00s rave as the audience is welcomed into Club NVRLND for this unique reimagining of JM Barrie’s Peter Pan. This is not just a show: it’s an immersive theatrical experience. It’s queer, euphoric, full of nostalgia and wonderfully camp.
With live performances of songs by some pop icons like Kesha, Avril Lavigne and Justin Timberlake, we’re encouraged to sing, dance and rave by emcee Tiger Lily, Tink on the DJ decks and even Hook, now a jealous, ageing ex-go-go dancer, who is who trying to take over the titular club. Interwoven with heartbreaking themes around growing up, it’s a painfully real watch for millennials still grieving the loss of their inner child (or their MySpace password).
From the steely gaze of the Crocodile to the hijinks of Smee, each character is memorable in their own way. But it’s Le Fil as Tiger Lily who is undoubtedly the stand-out. With multiple costume changes and impeccable hosting skills, they are absolutely remarkable as the glue holding the night together. There’s no doubt that this 80-minute extravaganza will be one of the hottest tickets going at this year’s Fringe.
Club NVRLND, Assembly Checkpoint, until 24 August, 9.15pm; main picture: Mihaela Bodlovic.