In Bad Taste at The Space
The journey to revolution and social justice goes awry during emerging theatre company Sixteen Sixty’s newest production, In Bad Taste, a feminist dark comedy exploring what it truly means “to eat the rich…and the misogynists.” Following a group of women turned cannibals on a murder spree, the show expertly pairs twisted humour with pointed observations regarding the challenges faced daily by women. Although often plagued with clunky narrative devices, In Bad Taste‘s simple concept, powerful feminist voice and energetic performers capture us with unique macabre and bloody charm.
Writer Daisy Kelly’s production is a linear 60-minute ensemble piece, designed to make its audience laugh, reflect and squirm in their seats. In modern-day London, young and newly unemployed Violet has convinced her friends to help her kill and eat her banker ex-boss. The gruesome death brings the women together and propels a plan: cannibalise the sexists and kickstart an uprising of justice and retribution. However, as the police begin to close in and the murder starts taking its psychological toll, relationships are tested, and prevailing sexism is revealed.
In Bad Taste combines competent storytelling with experimentation through its straightforward premise and unexpected performance styles. Broad-ranging techniques such as rap, dance, breaking the fourth wall and more are used to engage the audience and play with new forms of theatre. Despite the immense fun brought by these constant changes and unexpected storytelling devices, the frequent and abrupt shifts result in a fragmented narrative and prove to be distracting, failing to match the strong performance ability on stage.
The Space has no doubt found a diamond in the rough with all-female theatre company Sixteen Sixty, who ably demonstrate their comedic talent, creativity and above all political passion. Despite its ambigious style and lack of focus, In Bad Taste is contemporary and full of potential – indeed, it is so compelling, it puts its audience in the odd position of sympathising with cannibals.
Emma-Jane Betts
In Bad Taste is at The Space from 15th October until 17th October 2020. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.
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