Theatre review: The Mysteries @ Garrick Theatre
Olivier award-winning Isango Portobello’s production of The Mysteries is for anyone who ever thought The Bible was boring. This colourful, moving and brilliantly conceived musical starts with the Fall of Lucifer and ends with the Crucifixion of Jesus and is without doubt one of the most entertaining shows to hit London’s West End.
Pauline Malefane (Deus) with angels – (c) Ruphin Coudyzer
Told using a cast of 33 and delivered in at least five different languages, it re-creates biblical stories using the crudest of implements including a ladder, a watering can and a hand-painted sign. The drama is accompanied by some heavenly music which is sung and played by the cast; ranging from traditional South African to operatic. The simplistic approach also extends to the instruments which include oil drums, wine glasses full of water and upturned plastic bins.
It is the unsophisticated nature of The Mysteries that has the biggest impact and you find it hard to believe that such a modestly presented production could convey such a significant and consequential text as The Bible in such an engaging, funny and enjoyable way. A particular favourite is the Fall of Lucifer scene where God (Malefane) throws Lucifer into hell after she sits on her throne – is in this case a wooden ladder.
In a cast of 33 it’s difficult to pick your favourite but Pauline Malefane as both God and Jesus is outstanding. She goes from warm and loving to angry and vengeful with an ease and conviction required when portraying The Almighty and His judgements upon Man.
While details may have been changed and some scenes not entirely accurate, The Mysteries perfectly captures the spirit of The Bible – giving it a South African twist in the process.
THE MYSTERIES – YIIMIMANGALISO – Garrick Theatre booking until 3rd October. Ticket prices start at £20 and you can book by calling the box office on 0844 412 4662
For more information on the show and the company please see the websites www.themysteries.com or www.portobellopictures.com
