Red Bus Londinium Life

The Southwark Playhouse, venue to Berlusconi, liken this new musical to Evita on acid and watching it does feel like being inside someone else’s feverish dream.

The musical is closest in style to the cult classic Jerry Springer the Opera. (Incidentally, a thought I had in the first half and then learned Jerry Springer had died during the interval). Watching it is certainly never boring but can be confusing at times, it took me a while to work out the Tiberius references, for example.

The talented cast are hugely energetic and perform all of Rebecca Howell’s choreography with commitment, adding much of the comedy. The hands coming from below to be fans, journalists and so on was also very clever.

Sebastien Torkia, as the maligned politician, oozes slime and one can almost feel him try to seduce each audience member.

I had an entertaining time at this show but am not sure it is one that will be with us for years to come in the way Evita has been.

Berlusconi is playing at Southwark Playhouse Elephant (their new venue) and it seemed a well-designed and flexible space which I am sure will host many excellent productions over the years.

Have you seen Berlusconi ? Let me know your thoughts below.