Back in 2011, lengthy earlier than West End Wilma was born, I noticed a little bit present, off-Broadway referred to as Silence! – a parody musical of the traditional cult horror movie The Silence Of The Lambs. I bear in mind keen the present to return to London so I may see it once more. And now, after a summer time run on the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, it’s lastly right here, on the Turbine Theatre.
Fans of the movie will eat up this 80 minute musical with dancing lambs (uncommon, with little or no mint sauce), a pleasant chianti and a lingering odor of Clarice Starling’s cunt. Those offended by that phrase ought to steer properly away from this present as there’s a entire music (and a number of other reprises) about it.
Trainee police detective Clarice Starling is tasked with interviewing serial killer Hannibal Lecter in jail to attempt to clear up a case that’s presently taking place, eerily just like his work. But if she needs assist discovering Buffalo Bill earlier than he makes his subsequent kill, she should disclose private tales about her childhood and the lambs that simply received’t cease screaming in her head.
Mark Oxtoby is sensible as Lecter. He performs the half like a loopy psychopath, quite than the sadistic serial killer and cannibal we’re used to from the movie. I might have favored to see the character directed to be a little bit extra just like the Hannibal everyone knows however for a comedy musical it labored properly.
Phoebe Panaretos, as Clarice, portrayed by Jodie Foster within the movie, mimics her southern comedy voice completely and brings all of the comedy required to the function. Jake Anthony as Buffalo Bill is once more, completely forged, enjoying the cross dressing monster with a sinister appeal and a likeable craziness that makes you assume being kidnapped and tortured by him may truly be fairly enjoyable.
Tom Giles performs Pembury and lots of different elements on this ensemble observe however stands out in each second, with a glowing essence that you could’t assist however watch at any time when he’s on stage.
If you’re a fan of the movie, then this can be a must-see throughout its brief London run on the Turbine Theatre. It was the whole lot I remembered it to be and that i simply hope I don’t have to attend one other 13 years to see one other manufacturing.
West End Wilma