EntertainmentTheatre

The Believers Are But Brothers at the Theatre Royal, Plymouth Review

1-5 May 2018

Reviewed by Chelsea Wright

Last night, Wednesday 2nd May, I attended The Believers Are But Brothers at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth. This show is presented in The Drum, a smaller production area, allowing for a more interactive and engaging experience.

This show is incredibly thought provoking, explaining the links between the internet, social media, and the development and expansion of ISIS.

The initial set up is unique, comprising two desks, back to back, with multiple computer screens, webcams, headsets and laptops, between the two a thin material (used throughout for projection purposes, intended to see activities behind).

The show takes several stances, one of which being phone interaction. This is incredibly unique and a fantastic way of modernising theatre and fully engaging and captivating your audience. My mobile number was taken (fully assured data would be destroyed following the show) and I was added to a WhatsApp group, which messages would be sent to throughout the show.

There were also three vocal standpoints, one being very casual and personal, more like a one to one chat, where he would explain occurrences in his own life, how he did his research and why he designed the show as it appears. Another, in front of a microphone, a stance he used to share the stories of three different boys. The final, with a headset, in front of a webcam, this created a strange distance, and really allowed the audience to envisage the distance between reality and internet.

Now, I can’t explain anything in too much detail for fear of giving anything away. What I can say is that I highly recommend viewing this show, I walked away with a more open mind of radical extremist groups than what is portrayed on the news. Javaad Alipoor has created a fantastic show and has found a unique way of fully engaging with his audiences.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost £15 (booking fees may apply).

The Believers Are But Brothers is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 1-5 May 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222.

Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR | 01752 267222

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