Another Way at the Cockpit Theatre
New musical Another Way is currently debuting in London and is a production focusing on the relationships between six characters, who are friends, lovers and colleagues, and the hope that arises from these bonds.
The script, written by Offie nominated new writers Sarah Henley and Tori Allen-Martin, is strong, with moments of razor-sharp comedy often created from the most banally modern places: a laptop freezing at a key moment, being politically incorrect in a time of political correctness, or the use of the phrase “YOLO wanker” to describe the small proportion of modern Britons who prefix every unwise action with “You Only Live Once” in the belief it will make them look like less of an idiot. The incisive script treads the much trodden theme of new relationships with its own unique approach following the intersecting stories of these six people, all with their own reliance on chance.
In stark contrast however, the musical element of the production seems to make up for the script’s lack of corniness and, although sung well, embeds itself in the action in a very upsettingly conventional way. To analogise, consider a cast member of the TV show Glee appearing on the set of Peep Show and adding a musical soundtrack. Separately, and for distinctly varied audiences, the two genres work, but together they jarred slightly, making the songs grate and the language of the script seem less genuine.
Despite this, the live music which scores the entire production is beautifully delivered and works to inspire at least a small feeling of hope within its audience in the intensely intimate setting. Hope, according to the show’s write-up, is what Another Way is all about and by ending on the brink of a new year it is clear to see that the company want their audience to go home with a feeling of possibility. And although the torrential mid-September rain may have dampened this effect, there’s a chance the moments of scripted brilliance and heartfelt acting worked to offset the brilliantly cheesy choreographed umbrella routine, which occurs in the opening scene. Or maybe not, but here’s to hoping.
Laura Tucker
Another Way is at the Cockpit Theatre until 15th October 2013. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.
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