Ben Mellor's Voices of Descent
Just a quickie review of one of the best pieces of poetry performance i've seen in a long time. Voices of Descent is fast, witty, provocative and, above all else, hugely enjoyable.
Taking on the themes of globalisation and environmental impact, Ben had taken on a tough job to create a work that wasn't either preachy or too lightweight. A fantastic idea was to have the play powered by bicycle (in an effort to make the production carbon neutral). throughout the play, willing members of the audienec were brought out of their seats to pedal alongside Ben, so providing the light to shine on his expertly crafted gang of characters.
This was a one man show, and the real key to its success is Ben's unfaltering charisma, he delivers his exceptional wordplay with such style and ability its impossible not to be drawn in.
Voices of Descent has completed its run at Contact, but is looking to tour in the future, so keep your eyes open for a very relevant and incredibly entertaining work. It really is a must see!
Pete Crompton
Sun 4th May 2008 19:51
drat
I never heard about this
it sounds great
I would have liked to have a pedal too
Lets hope it tours