Derrière on a G String | King's Head Theatre

They say that over 90% of communication is non-verbal. A statistic I always thought couldn’t possibly be true, but after indulging in the genius that is Derrière on a G String at the Kings Head Theatre, I have been proven wrong. This production is chaotic, sexy and an unbridled joy from start to finish. Directed and Choreographed by Alfred Taylor-Gaunt, it is a rollercoaster of almost 20 different physical sketches with little to no verbal inputs. A reminder that some of the best storytelling requires little words.

Taylor-Gaunt has managed to capture the comedy we can find in our everyday situations brilliantly. Beginning the show with a riotous ‘day in the life’ sketch and bringing it full circle by the end, which is a nice touch. We explore many different scenarios from fitting a duvet, losing your boarding pass and navigating your way through a group of vaping teenagers all with a level of satire and flamboyance that elevates every movement.

With the chosen soundtrack for this storytelling being our favourite classical pieces from the likes of The Nutcracker to Swan Lake, it is madness at its most entertaining. There is something for everyone in this production, it brought the entire auditorium together. The piece has a joyous homoerotic undercurrent which simply lights up the stage.

Emily Bestow’s set design is detailed and tailored to aid the storytelling with windows, curtains and hatches for the performers to pop onto stage, the energy is never lost.

The cast is exceptional. It is clear each individual is skilled in their craft and holds a confidence rarely seen by an ensemble. Their comic timing is spot on and physically they are on the top of their game. The show moves fast but they are one step ahead every time. Sammy Moore and Alice O’Brien have a natural rapport and confidence with the audience, picking audience members and bringing attention to them just at the right moments for the best comedic effect.

Despite the slapstick, brash nature of the physical comedy which is perfect, we never lost the elegance of the dancers skill in the lighter moments. I think many people are slightly afraid of watching dance based shows as if it won’t be clear or they will miss the point. This production captures the essence of what it is to simply tell a story with movement alone and the result feels incredibly welcoming to an audience member.

Some Smith & Moore says they make theatre that aims, above all else, to entertain. It sounds simple and of course you would expect nothing less, but it is no easy feat what this production has achieved. With a unique blend of dance, comedy and physical theatre you won’t know what to expect, but I assure you you will not be disappointed. It is 75 minutes of camp, crazy and utterly beautiful storytelling and will be one of the best nights out you can have in the coming weeks.

Derrière on a G String plays at the King's Head Theatre until 07th June - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Charlie Flint