Fringe Review: ELBA, Just the Sub-Atomic Room at Just the Tonic Nucleus
Photo credit: Andrew Stokes
ELBA is a small island, just off the coast of Italy. In this show, we learn about how the island has been invaded by many, many countries yet their people still survive. The show particularly focuses on the time that Napoleon Bonaparte was appointed the leader of the island - a time filled with hope for the future, but does that hope surmount to any real positive change?
This is Ishan Mahabir-Stokes’ first original show and it is a wonderful debut. The show is slick, combining a range of different styles of storytelling including drama, dance and music. Mahabir-Stokes’ is an enthralling performer to watch. His dialogue comes across incredibly naturally, although the modern day references can feel slightly out of place whilst also helping us to picture ourselves on this island. Finding some more moments for comedy within the piece, alongside the exploration of the important political topic, could help to elevate the show further. As a former Scottish Ballet dancer, it is no surprise that Mahabir-Stokes moves beautifully. It’s not overly balletic in style - this is dance that is driven by the storytelling. Each movement pushes the story along.
The show has been choreographed by Constant Vigier who ensures the dance is polished and precise, whilst not detracting the storytelling behind it. Vigier also plays Napoleon Bonaparte. His pompous and regal characterisation contrasts perfectly to Mahabir-Stokes’ down-to-earth characterisation. Both Vigier and Mahabir-Stokes sing beautifully - it is a shame there isn’t more music, or pieces of more poetic dialogue, in the show.
ELBA is a lovely show, performed by two very talented dancers cum actors. Not only is it entertaining but it’s also very educational about a time and place that is definitely not on the history curriculum.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Jacob Bush