Death Ship 666 at the Jermyn Street Theatre

Fast-paced, energetic and wickedly humorous, Michael Patrick Clarkson’s parody play Death Ship 666 – written by Clarkson, Gemma Hurley and Paul Clarkson – encompasses multiple iconic storylines to create a unique and highly engaging narrative that will have you laughing out loud from start to finish.

Following the delightfully stereotypical yet offbeat passengers aboard Death Ship on its maiden voyage, multiple villains have set out for her destruction in order to collect the wealth of fellow travellers. Somehow, amid scheming and treachery, a romance blossoms – but the star-crossed lovers could meet their untimely death if they cannot escape the impending doom that is Death Ship 666.

With a moderate cast made up of only six actors, each individual brings a distinct element of intrigue and hilarity to the production. Andrew Utley as Captain and Electrician is animated and boisterous, in the latter role as a mischievous murderer with a heart of gold. Although he plots against our heroes, his good intentions and the obvious discontent he demonstrates for his wife is deplorable yet entertaining. Carrie Marx is dynamic and loveable in each persona she brings to the stage, from the curious and clever Holly Hobby to the skittish and homicidal Tour Guide. Her commitment to each different character brings greater variety to an already diverse ensemble.

Taking full advantage of what each individual has to offer, the actors even make up parts of the set, and the elements that threaten the lives of the group, in an imaginative fashion that only creates more interest.

With musical direction by David Roper and Jonti Oakley, the pair are successful in exploiting our favourite dramatic moments in cinema all in the name of satire and good fun – all aboard!

Natasha Fonseka

Death Ship 666 is at the Jermyn Street Theatre until 15^th December 2013. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.