Five Lines by Frau Trapp, The Pit Barbican Review
Written by Danai for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Five Lines by Frau Trapp is a project that is hard not to admire. With micro cinema- theatre being an impressive craft in itself, Frau Trapp masterfully executes every aspect of it—from the miniatures to the special effects, blending real acting with miniature recordings and showcasing an undeniable passion for their work.
Matteo Frau and Mina Trapp serve as the central protagonists, sometimes appearing as themselves and other times as miniatures designed to represent them. Matteo portrays a passionate musician striving to advance his career, dedicating all his time to his craft. Meanwhile, Mina embodies his partner, a committed climate activist. When a dystopian reality forces them to live underground in tightly controlled societies, their lives seem bleak and without purpose. However, a musical contest rekindles Matteo’s aspirations. This event becomes a catalyst, not just for his creative resurgence but also for Mina and a mutual friend to plan their escape.
From a technical perspective, the production is exceptional. The time, effort, talent, and dedication invested in the project are evident from start to finish. There’s a unique charm in watching a show that feels authentic and heartfelt in both its intent and execution. The camera work by Sebi Escarpenter and Dalo Lozano deserves special praise, while Trapp’s scenography and miniatures, along with Frau’s music and its seamless integration into the narrative, are truly standout elements.
That said, the narrative doesn’t quite reach the same level of excellence as the technical execution. The show explores significant themes—questioning societal notions of success, the environmental crisis, and the communal nature of humanity. It critiques the capitalist narrative that defines success as individualistic and self-centered, often at the expense of broader, more meaningful pursuits. Frau Trapp effectively touches on these issues, raising questions about our roles in society and our connections to others. However, the storytelling at times feels secondary, more like a supporting element rather than a fully developed core aspect of the production, same as the character development.
This may be a deliberate choice to allow the demanding technical elements to take center stage. Nonetheless, sharpening the narrative and writing would elevate the show even further, transforming it into a more cohesive and impactful experience.
Overall, Five Lines by Frau Trapp is not to be missed. It introduces audiences to the enchanting world of micro-cinema-theater while showcasing immense talent and sincerity. The show invites viewers to reflect on both societal and interpersonal questions, including environmental concerns and our relationships with others. It’s a beautiful demonstration of artists working passionately and purposefully, leaving audiences inspired and provoked. This is an experience that celebrates the arts and delivers a meaningful message—one that deserves widespread recognition.
★ ★ ★
