★★★

Reviewer - Annie

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

Back for another season at the Waterloo Vaults, the Vault Festival has returned for a run just short of 6 weeks, showcasing over 500 shows. This is the place to see anything ranging from comedies to tragedies, it is an eclectic mix of rising stars and perhaps the next big writer.

It was my first visit to the Vaults and the festival. The location is just magical, leading through a long tunnel which has become famed for its ever changing graffiti artworks, you end up at the vault theatre. Housing multiple studio sized theatres and a bar, it has the most glorious buzz about it.

It really feels like the perfect place to showcase emerging talent and writing. It feels entirely indie and beautifully artsy, transporting you to a side of theatre you are often unable to find in London.

Last night I attended the latest production from LipZinc Theatre ‘Kites’ which follows the lives of two best friends as they venture from childhood to womanhood. It is a beautifully heartwarming tale, which I’m sure most women will be able to relate to.

READ: Interview with LipZinc Theatre.

Also it was perfect timing to visit the show on the eve of International Women’s Day. The show wonderfully demonstrates the struggles that came with the journey to womanhood, whilst still celebrating the happiness within it.

The plot is set in the late 1940’s through to the early/mid 1960’s. Although I did not grow up in this era, there’s something about it that feels weirdly nostalgic. Perhaps it’s the simplicity and ease of the lifestyle (excluding the inequality of course!) but I’ve always found it oddly therapeutic.

‘Kites’ has been written with good understanding - both of the era but also of the journey of growing up. The writing is heartwarming and joyful to watch. Like its period,it is simple in that it focuses on the joy and journeys of its characters.

The staging is completely stripped back, again allowing the entire focus to be on the characters. However, there is a great use of props which really help to bring the story to life. They are the perfect balance of being well considered whilst playing into the imagination element of the show.

Both actresses (TZARINI MEYLER & ANA CANALS) offer excellent performances. They feel natural, confident and comfortable in the roles and the show moves with great tempo.

Particular applause must go to both for their relationship on stage with one another, it felt extremely equally weighted whilst allowing each other to shine in their own ways independently.

Meyler’s writing is extremely commendable, it is excellently researched but also has great flow. Not one moment felt drawn out or over used, which is a tremendous feat.

KITES is performing at the VAULT Festival until 12 March 2023. Book your tickets now!