Ballooniana!

The intimate nature of the Studio at New Wimbledon Theatre was the perfect setting for this fast-paced production about man’s obsession with flight. As the audience was eased into their seats, two vaudevillians, dressed as shabby suited showmen in raggedy tailcoats with clown-like makeup, entertained the crowd with lighthearted and comical mime. They held up signs saying ‘it hasn’t started yet’ and ‘keep talking’ so it was clear from the offset that this show wasn't about to take itself too seriously.

Writer and Director Alexander Knott, also known for Loop with Boxless Theatre, set out to tell the story of the Montgolfier brothers and combine it with other whimsical tales of man’s desire to ‘go up’ - including an old man that built a pair of wings from wax and feathers in 1550 BC and Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon in 1969. Knott melded Boxless’ signature style of physical theatre and original writing with spoken word poetry, puppetry, music, ribbons and everything in between to demonstrate a carnival of creativity.

For context, the late eighteenth century saw the inception of the hot air balloon and the balloon-mania that followed. The central theme was the Montgolfier brothers - aviation pioneers, balloonists and paper manufacturers - best known for the invention of the Montgolfière-style hot air balloon in 1783.

Shrewd businessman, Jacques Montgolfier, played by Zoe Grain, and his slightly more cantankerous and adventurous brother Joseph, played by Freya Sharp, set on a mission to conquer the skies. Although a tad chaotic at times and slightly unfocussed, Zoe and Freya’s impeccable timing and energy really held the script together. The actors were exceptionally talented and seamlessly slipped between roles. The pair built an instant rapport with the audience, regularly breaking the fourth wall - giving the audience no false illusion that this was anything but fun.

The final piece of this melodramatic and slightly ridiculous ensemble was the multi-talented James Demaine. The ragamuffin musician was the perfect accompaniment to Grain and Sharp, staying true to the theme of eccentricity. What really made this 75-minute one-act show standout was the skilful use of physical theatre and carefully crafted set, sound and lighting. There is no doubt that every detail of this production had been meticulously designed with purpose.

Joyful in parts, melancholic in others, with a restless and vibrant energy maintained throughout - the show thoroughly entertained. The cast is immensely talented and this show delivers a fun evening out for all the family, especially if you’re looking for something a little outside of the norm. This lighthearted and fantastical three-person show was as delightful as it was bewildering. Although you can get lost at times, one thing prevails, this is a story of hope, optimism, and making the impossible, possible. Tickets start from £17.60 and the show of a story unbeknown to many runs until 1 October.

Photo credit Charles Flint Photography