Bolton Octagon, Bolton – until 22 April 2023
Review by Rebecca Hampson
5*****
Using the 1895 novel ‘The Time Machine’ by H.G.Wells as it’s inspiration this hilarious comedy had me belly laughing from start to finish.
Made up of a 4 strong cast including the talented Dave Hearn, Amy Revelle, Michael Dylan and Noah Marullo, we were transported into the world of ‘The Time Machine’ through an incredibly Brechtian and thrilling comedy.
There are so many incredible aspects of the show to comment on, to me the most impressive was the use of Brechtian techniques such as Placards, Audience Participation and Multi-role were the ultimate reason I fell in love with this comedy within the first act. I was especially impressed with the use of props and direct address to ensure the audience felt engaged and involved in the performance.
As well as asking the audience members questions related to the performance they also asked for volunteers to become members of the play and contribute to the performance. I was lucky enough (depending on your perspective) to be chosen to play the Morlock and interact with Dave Hearn in a short scene. I was invited from my seat onto the stage where I was directed backstage to put on a costume and wig, be handed my script and microphone before heading back on stage for the scene. This led to me leaving the theatre with the biggest smile with my best friend who had attended with me talking about how hilarious the show was and how it was the best night in a while.
Comedy isn’t usually the type of theatre that I go to see, my favourite type of theatre being musicals, but this show was everything I did not expect and more – it was the play that goes wrong meets H.G.Wells meets conspiracy theory play in a beautiful mash up together. I also didn’t know that I needed to see a Cher tribute performance in the middle of The Time Machine but I loved it.
I cannot put into enough words how fabulous this play was and how grateful I am to have had the opportunity to not only review but also participate in it.
You do not want to miss this show