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Tremendously original, at its centre there are human flaws and questions we all ask ourselves but it is wrapped up in an energetic and familiar party.Summary
Rating
Excellent
While DJ Bazzer (Jack Sunderland) is preparing a set for the year 6 leavers disco, he finds out that this is to be his final gig at the school. Using music, party games and a rather poetic script, we’re guided through the journey of how ‘Baz’ ended up at this point, through his highs and lows and his secrets.
As this is a solo show, Sunderland is already tasked with a huge challenge- not only the physical one, but he alone is required to hold our attention for the hour, something he does superbly. He is a force, hurling himself into the role and leaving it all out on the stage. Sunderland plays ‘Baz’s’ eccentric side with energy and accuracy- it is always believable, never too much. At times the crazy action is given space to breathe, reflect, credit here to writer Georgie Bailey for the marvelous structuring and to Sunderland alongside director Mike Cottrell for allowing Baz to pause and take care of the audience.
DJ Bazzers Year 6 Disco is a tremendously original piece of theatre. At its centre there are human flaws and questions we all ask ourselves but it is wrapped up in an energetic and familiar party, centered by a theatrical yet relatable character. The play has a dark side, as we all do. Its twists and mysteries are handled sincerely, wonderfully complimenting the rush of the ‘disco’ moments and nostalgic sound mixing (Chrissy Williams). Bailey and Cottrell also use some extremely original ways to encourage audience participation. In doing so they bring the show closer to us and help to achieve the companies’ aim of giving the audience ‘something to chew on long after you’ve experienced it’. Chewboy Productions are a refreshing, upcoming company and it is clear to see why so many are already enjoying their work. I’d recommend we all get a bit of DJ Bazzers Year 6 Disco in our lives.
Written by: Georgie Bailey
Directed by: Mike Cottrell
Produced by: Chewboy Productions
Sound Design: Chrissy Williams
Lighting Design: Chloe Stally-Gibson
You can hear our recent interview with Georgie Bailey and Jack Sunderland talking about both the show and Chewboy Productions here.
DJ Bazzer’s Year 6 Disco played at Golden Goose Theatre until 18 September. The show will also now play at RIverside Studios between 16 and 20 November. Further details and booking via the below link.
