Bold Theatre London is doing something really special in the theatre world. They're known for creating shows that will leave you thinking and talking about them way after the curtains have closed. They have been praised for their high-quality, diverse casting, and their commitment to top-notch productions. It's inspiring to see a company tackle tough themes around mental health, gender identity, and social justice and deliver them on point.
- photo by Lidia Crisafulli
The Foreigner's Panto by Shani Erez, a production by Bold Theatre, is an immigration-themed pantomime with a multicultural twist that attempts to address themes of community, kindness, and embracing differences. It is set to play from October 3 until its final performance on October 28. It is a tribute to their welcoming leader, Sarah Davey-Hull, BOLDS’ founder and artistic director, who believed in the power of theatre to bring people together. Whose legacy lives on showcasing creative minds and boundless limits to art, the great mix of humor and heartfelt moments of the play makes its message resonate with the audience.
The Bold Theatre London's The Foreigners' Panto is excellent proof of the company's high-quality productions and its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in casting. It brings together people of varying backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs, encouraging them to celebrate their differences. Their message of compassion, inclusivity, and acceptance seeks to dispel negative stereotypes that can be perpetuated by mainstream media. The show is a refreshing take on the traditional panto, featuring a stunning cast brimming with talent and skills.
What stands out most about The Foreigners' Panto is the credibility of the cast. Each member brings a unique flair and perspective to the stage, creating a truly authentic and engaging experience for audiences of all types. The artists' remarkable acting abilities are a sight to behold, and their flawless interactions with the crowd make the show even more immersive and captivating, making this an event that is not to be missed!
- photo by Lidia Crisafulli
Aliya Roberts stands out as an absolute force to be reckoned with in her role as Zara, displaying impressive range and skill as an actress. Her experience working with prestigious Singaporean companies such as The Singapore Lyric Opera and rigorous training from the esteemed Western Australian Academy are undeniably evident in her phenomenal singing. Not only does Aliya display seasoned vocal chops, but she also expertly embodies the weighty and grounded character she portrays, effortlessly weaving humor and heart-wrenching moments together. In a particularly awe-inspiring standout moment, Aliya commands the stage with a powerful performance that brings attention to the dehumanizing bureaucracy that surrounds her character. Her performance is impossible to overlook!
Although this outstanding performance shares characteristics with pantomime, it is much more than that. It offers a powerful commentary about the joys of living in Britaim, along with the overwhelming unfairness and arbitrary nature of its immigration laws. This message is conveyed with great success through a number of unforgettable characters, including Fabrizio Matteini's Dame Foreign, who must work multiple jobs, such as cleaning for the mayor, to support her daughter Zara. Villain, played brilliantly by Vikash Bhai, adds depth and emotion to the play with a sense of authenticity and sincerity. Furthermore, Amanda Vilanova's Visa the Cow provides a comedic MOOOMENT, reminding audiences that this is, indeed, a pantomime.
To highlight, The Foreigners' Panto is a shining example of Bold Theatre London's outstanding work in the realm of inclusivity and diversity in the arts. The company's dedication to providing a platform for underrepresented voices in theatre is admirable, and their artists' professionalism and credibility leave audiences spellbound. The production aims to provide a lighthearted and entertaining way to examine topics that can be complex and often contentious. It cleverly plays with the traditional framework of pantomime to address themes of immigration and cultural integration. They also note how the show manages to succeed in tackling these thorny topics by showing the audience how community and kindness can help overcome differences.
What sets this play apart from others is the uncanny ability of the artists to strike a perfect balance between the show's lighter, comedic moments and its more somber, emotionally weighted scenes. This harmony ensures that the play's charm and poignancy never falter, keeping audiences riveted from start to finish. The aim to provide an intriguing glimpse into the overall aesthetic and tone of the show has been successfully deployed by the cast, creative team, and crew members involved.
At a time when issues related to immigration and diversity are at the forefront of global political discourse, The Foreigners’ Panto presents an urgent and relevant message of hope and unity. The Foreigners' Panto serves as a powerful reminder that we are all more similar than we are different, and that by working together, we can overcome even the most significant of challenges. As timely as it is timeless, the play highlights the significance of fostering a culture of tolerance and acceptance, resonating deeply in today's world.
