For an hour-long show, Opal Fruits covers a lot of ground. In this busy show, you can expect music, dance and reflections on a wide-range of subjects.
The solo show by Holly Beasley-Garrigan is an exploration of working class culture - because that is how to get arts funding. Topics touched on range from housing and trauma to education and social mobility, among others.
One of the key themes looks at the link between art and working class culture. It talks about what it is like to be an artist who grew up poor and also what it is like to be part of two worlds while not feeling part of either, for example.
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Beasley-Garrigan does not take herself too seriously and humour fills the show which is packed with good jokes. For me, the "your mum" jokes were a peak point as she sees how far she can go.
However, I found the show to be a bit all over the place, feeling a bit disconnected as it tries to do too much in an hour.
You can tell that the debut solo show has undergone significant redevelopment and, for me, the highlight was the great visuals and decorations.
With an amusing fruit-theme running throughout (expect talking fruits), Opal Fruits is full of bright colour and changing scenography despite the small space at The Weston Studio. Several outfits are worn as the narrative moves on while the stage also transform throughout.
Music also features prominently and I enjoyed Beasley-Garrigan's uninhibited dancing. Her enjoyment of being on stage is infectious, lifting the audience up with her.
At an hour-long, Opal Fruits is the right length and provides an entertaining hour for the audience. If you are at a loose end this weekend, why not check out the show and see what you think?
Opal Fruits is on at the Bristol Old Vic until Saturday, September 10. You can find out more here.
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