Never mind the parallels with Greek mythology, the first thing that strikes you is just how likeable Orpheus in the Record Shop star Testament is as he invites you into his world filled with pathos, unremitting sorrow, infused with beat-box and an orchestral ensemble.
The champion beat-boxer, singer, rapper, performer, composer, playwright (it’s just getting boring now!) and actor Testament, AKA Andy Brooks, begins the Leeds Playhouse and Opera North co-production as just a one-man show. He introduces himself as the titular Orpheus and invites the audience into his record shop.
“Music is everywhere,” he mocks the empty platitude of a woman who’s entered his shop, holding his hands up saying “Yeah, it’s a record shop”. And then he takes us through facets of his life as he stands behind the counter of his failing shop, as frustrating customers enter who he knows have absolutely no intention of buying a record and don’t appreciate vinyl records with the grandeur they should be held in. “Don’t touch the products!” he barks at them.
