Choose Life. Choose a job… Choose Trainspotting Live at Curve Leicester this week.
I believe the hallmark of a good production is one you still find yourself talking about long afterwards and – whether you love it or hate it – I guarantee this production will leave you doing just that. This is the second time I’ve seen In Your Face theatre company’s production of Trainspotting Live (the first being in a basement at Edinburgh Fringe in 2015) and despite loving it first time around, it just seems to get better and better.
The very name of the theatre company says it all. This production is designed to be In Your Face and to keep you on eggshells so that it’s impossible to feel remotely safe or comfortable. A member of the cast spat a drink in my eye the first time I saw this production and this time round the woman in front of me had a nude man rub his genitals on the back of her head and then drop a blanket covered in simulated faeces on her. Basically, don’t go and see this production if you’re sensitive, prudish or if you’re hoping for a ‘nice night out at the theatre’. I wouldn’t take your grandparents, either.
Based on the novel of the same name by Irvine Welsh, Danny Boyle’s iconic film was released in 1996 and is the story of Mark Renton and his friends, living through the Edinburgh heroin scene of the 80s. Directed by Adam Spreadbury-Maher, this theatre production feels quite independent from its predecessors and definitely makes a name for itself as a third strong contender to the franchise.
This production is staged by an immensely talented cast and creative team. The shocking stunts contained mostly within the first half an hour or so are followed by intensely harrowing scenes that could only be successful with incredible acting. You will laugh and you will probably cry (or at least be deeply moved) during this short 75 minute long production.
I have seen this production twice and I would 100% see it a third, fourth and fifth time and I seriously recommend it to anyone looking for something just a wee bit different to their average night out at the theatre.
Reviewed by Rosie Bambury
Trainspotting Live is on at Curve Leicester until Saturday 24th June before continuing its UK tour.
