Siro-A at the Leicester Square

Siro-A is a team of Japanese performers who have been dubbed the new Blue Man Group. Although their performance contains an impressive light and dance show, as well as some very amusing moments, it is perhaps a bit misguided to hold them up to the level of refined skill and showmanship displayed by such performance artists.

The show consists of a series of sketches in which the young male cast perform impeccable dance routines to a fast techno soundtrack. However, the real selling point is the creative light show and the way in which it melds into the overall performance. The near-perfect timing of Siro-A allows them to mimic the playing of instruments and video games through previously prepared digital videos projected onto the stage.

Whilst there are some truly stunning points in which their inventiveness and performance skills are praiseworthy, there are also many moments in the show that fall flat. Half of the sketches feel out of place with the rest of the kooky and often surreal material, and seem like fillers to ensure a full one-hour show. Despite this, the comedic moments are well timed, and every performer really gives 100%.

Before the show begins, audience members are encouraged to have their photos taken in a makeshift photo booth next to the stage. Audience participation is a big part of Siro-A, with the performers engaging the audience through the use of conversation and questions throughout. This works well with a friendly audience, but with so much of the show riding on their participation, it is possible for it to go awry should a crabby crowd ever be present.

Despite some qualms with the overall structure of the show, every member’s performance is impeccable, and this is something that you are unlikely to see anywhere else. Siro-A is whimsical and absurd, and offers a unique form of theatre with a Japanese twist.

Jennah Dean

Siro-A is on at Leicester Square Theatre until 11^th January 2015, for further information or to book visit here.

Watch the trailer for Siro-A here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCwtf3gE-II