Don’t let the small and almost unassuming appearance of the Arcola mislead you in thinking you will see a poor production. As Britain’s first ever professional Capoeira production based on Euripides’ epic play, In Blood: The Bacchae, is a masterpiece of theatrical intensity grappling with conflicts more relevant today than ever before: religious freedom, political order, apathy and fanaticism. The play comes to Arcola for a limited run as part of the 2009 Brazilian Season and incorporates the Brazilian martial art Capoeira: a combination of diverse elements of African culture including dance, music, acrobatics and various fighting forms.
The play boasts an outstanding performance by Greg Hicks who plays police chief Gordiho, with a presence that the audience can not but be captivated by, as he spits literally into the victims of his fury and power. It is an effortless and compelling performance by the actor whose extensive theatre credits include numerous plays at the RSC and The Old Vic. He outshines most of the supporting cast, though a very good performance by Daon Broni as Besouro, the Brazilian hero who leads to Gordiho’s demise comes a close second. Like the Greek tragedy that inspires it, In Blood centres on the futility of power, injustice and the subversive power of dance to empower oppressed people.
A particularly enjoyable scene, which encapsulates the plays vivacity, is when Gordiho comes face to face with the Afro Brazilian street capoerists in a capoeira dance off that leaves him defeated. The dance prowess of Luiz Feliciano, who plays a small role as Leandro, are unequalled. The strong accent of Jorge Goia who plays Brazilian street capoierist Chaves makes his speech at times incomprehensible, which unfortunately detracts from what is otherwise a good performance.
For those who may be new to the captivating dance of capoeira, the play is a great introduction. Fortunately, the use of capoeira is not a superfluous stylistic device to excite the audience but is central to the play’s success in storytelling the historical and social plight of Afro Brazilians in the 1920’s, and the role of capoeira as a symbol of hope.
Credit must to go the production crew for their attention to light and in particular sound that really adds to the dramatic mood of each scene. Most of the acting takes part on the theatre floor which may explain the simplicity of the set design. Props are basic with wooden boxes used as seats, but maximize audience focus on the actors’ speech and performance.
If you are after light entertainment, In Blood is one to avoid. With its intellectually demanding script, no interval for a toilet break or refreshment; children may get restless, although they will enjoy the allure of capoeira and the booming sounds that emanate from the beating of the traditional Brazilian drums.
Arcola Theatre, London E8 2DJ
£10-£15 Tel: 020 7503 1646
Rating 7/10
