Review: THE THREEPENNY OPERA, OVO Theatre St Albans
Besties, The Threepenny Opera: A play with music is thought to be one of the first ever musicals, and what a barmy one it is!
As a merry cast of high-vis clad musicians stomp onto a mannequin strewn stage, it’s clear this is going to be interesting.
Those who are familiar with The Threepenny Opera will know that Brecht’s work is intentionally chaotic and zany, so the challenge here is trying to keep a handle on it so that it makes sense to the audience, whilst delivering the political messages therein. This is achieved by the OVO team, and the story of our anti-hero Macheath frantically unfolds amongst the sex workers and thieves of London.
OVO have added an additional layer of complexity to the piece by telling the story via lab scientists who are in control of the characters; an ambitious twist, which makes the play feel more modern, though adding an extra element for the audience to navigate.
We first meet Macheath, to the tune of ‘Mack The Knife’, we then go on to hear of his numerous misdemeanours. Peter Watts is chillingly charismatic in the role of Macheath as he struts around the stage and into women’s hearts. His three main ‘love’ interests, played by Emily Panes, Emilia Harrild and Faith Turner, are entirely convincing in their roles, with crystal clear voices delivering the ‘Tango Ballad’ and the ‘Jealousy Duet’ powerfully.
The musician-actors are all incredibly talented, not only switching between stage and band but also switching between characters and instruments effortlessly. As intended by Brecht, we’re oft reminded when watching The Threepenny Opera that we are at the theatre with the cast regularly breaking the fourth wall by interacting with the audience and using props to engage with those watching.
As Mack elopes with Peachum’s daughter Polly, supported by his old pal, now corrupt, police chief Tiger Brown, a cat and mouse story unfolds as the Peachums try to catch Mack and bring him to justice, closing with a clunky deus ex machina, bringing the play to a close with an unbelievable ending.
The play hopes to signify the issues with a Capitalist society: demonstrating that some people will do anything to make money. By comparing businesspeople, like Peachum, to criminals like Macheath, we are led to believe that the greedy middle class aren’t any worse than lower class criminals. With loved ones selling each other out for money, we are shown how society is structured like a house of cards, ready to fold at any moment. Weills’ score is particularly weighty in its messaging, as we’re told that ‘Life’s a bitch and then you die’.
Remaining starkly relevant today, this satirical piece on society, with catchy music, and a strong fun cast will have your eyes popping, your brain whirring, and your toes tapping.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Cara Brazier
The Threepenny Opera plays at OVO, St Albans until 6 September, with further information here: