Remember, Remember! theatre review: Mischievous misinformation
The infamous happenings of the 5th of November are turned on their head in a Horrible Histories-esque. razor-sharp romp
Remember Remember! manages to somehow get all the historical facts of Jacobean England wrong yet hits all the right entertainment notes. Wit? Theatre Company’s new production is a camp musical reimagining of the Gunpowder Plot, with a lot more drama, twists, romance and sass. Inside the small sold-out theatre, the actors are so close that their pores are visible during an energetic opening number filled with contemporary and historical references and promises of a good time. The four-strong cast have incredible chemistry, commitment and talent, rendering the show exquisite and making some of the most ridiculous parts of this historically inaccurate retelling convincing.
The show succeeds because it is executed with a high level of vocal skill and control, all of which are made to look effortless. Aside from the expected musical numbers, we’re entertained by dance breaks, physical comedy and clever transitions. In the midst of its historical fabrication, Remember, Remember! taps into universal themes of the human experience: jumping to conclusions, insecurity, friendship, not judging a book by its cover. Once witnessed, it’ll be hard to forget this version of events when the 5th of November rolls around.
Remember, Remember!, Pleasance Dome, until 30 August, 5.15pm; picture: Kit McCarthy.