š Copla: A Spanish Cabaret
š The Other Palace Studio, 12 Palace Street, London, SW1E 5JA
š Friday 17th January 2024
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HONEST AND BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED
What is Copla? Wikipedia informs us that it is a form of Spanish popular song deriving from the poetic form of the same name. In this show, writer and performer Alejandro Postigo delves into the true meaning of Copla, and he does so with such devotion that he instantly draws the audience in.
Postigo is a natural performer and has stacks of charisma. His passion for the subject matter radiates from the stage as he gives an emotion filled performance. Copla was a somewhat scandalous artform, having subjects such as prostitution, adultery and homosexual relationships at its core.
In COPLA: A SPANISH CABARET our queer Spanish performer translates and performs these epic pieces for an English-speaking audience, sharing his love for the artform with grace and elegance. He manages to captivate the audience from the beginning and willingly takes us on his journey.
The piece is biographic and after proving his credentials (much like a dentist!) Postigo discusses his relationship with Copla. We learn of his love of The Sound of Music and of Julie Andrews, and of his discovery that it wasn't Andrews singing in the Spanish version of the film. This leads to a brilliant piece where, after getting the audience to sing both the English and Spanish versions of 'Do Re Mi', where violinist Violeta Valladares performs the Spanish version which is translated literally back into English in real-time by pianist Jack Elsdon.
This piece shows just how difficult it is to translate true meaning between languages, and the fact that Postigo manages to share the emotion and intent in his translations is no mean feat.
It is obvious that COPLA: A SPANISH CABARET has been exquisitely and carefully curated, and the use of video projections aids the storytelling. When we enter the space there are already clips of old movies playing. The silence and emotion of these magnificently create wonder and intrigue for what's to come. The screen is used throughout the show. More film clips are used as well as personal things, such as a heartwarming chat between Postigo and his grandmother.
The costuming is also glorious, and simple things such as turning his waistcoat inside out is genius. As the piece progresses, the costumes become more flamboyant but are perfect.
The central part of the evening is Postigo's wonderful storytelling. There is a sincerity and honesty about his delivery. The way he comes into the audience and includes them is a brilliant touch. I personally became part of the show when Postigo replicated a movie scene next to a lamppost, before being sat on by him towards the end of the evening!
The intimate setting of The Other Palace Studio enables the emotion to be heightened and as we learn about how Copla became politicized, and the history of Spain's relationship with queerness, Postigo has a sincerity that is unmatched. His singing voice is powerful and has real depth, and he is charming and engaging throughout.
COPLA: A SPANISH CABARET is playing until Sunday 26th January and is not to be missed. Click here to secure your tickets.
Neill Kovacic-Clarke
All views are my own and I pride myself on being honest, fair and free from influence. Theatre is subjective and it is important to remember that all views expressed are just those of one person.
My ticket for this performance of Copla: A Spanish Cabaret was gifted by Chloe Nelkin Consulting who invited me to watch the show in exchange for my honest review. The fact that my ticket was gifted played no part in the content of my review or the star rating given.
CAST AND CREATIVES:
Alejandro Postigo - Writer & Performer
Sergio Maggiolo - Director
Violeta Valladares - Violin
Jack Elsdon - Piano
Ricardo Ferreira - Video & Graphic Design
Scott Folan - Producer
Berthe Fortin - Costume Design
Pablo FernƔndez Baz - Lighting Design
Laura Mateos - Communication Manager
RUNNING TIME (approx):
1 hour 10 minutes, with no interval
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