The Animator at Southwark Playhouse Borough Review
Written by Mia for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Everyone knows that Walt Disney created the first feature-length animation in 1938… or did he?
Back in 1926, Lotte Reiniger and her team produced ‘The Adventures of Prince Achmed’, yet this film has all but been lost to history… until now. Akimbo Theatre have finally brought Lotte’s journey to us, and what a story it is.
Fascinating in its own right, this theatre company uses a combination of silhouettes, physical theatre, film and comedy to bring us a show that is mesmerising, chaotic and informative.
The ensemble consists of Lexie Baker, Owen Bleach, Halvor Tangen Schultz, Flo Wiedenbach and Richard Durning - a group of talented individuals who take on multiple roles and perform all manner of impressive feats. Although quite different in its performance style, once you embrace it, there’s a lot to enjoy.
The story is fast-paced, and it’s interesting to see which parts of the story are chosen to focus on. We know nothing about Lotte’s past, but much of the performance echoes topics still relevant today, like freedom of expression, censorship and propaganda. It paints Berlin as very progressive and welcoming to all… until suddenly it wasn’t. There are nods to Cabaret, impressive choreography and heartfelt moments.
It is somewhat challenging to follow at times, as the action fluctuates between serious scenes of artistry, silhouettes, animation, and emotion, followed by physical movement and mime. The silhouettes and their projection are stunning, and the ensemble possesses a wide range of skills, as puppetry and projection animation are complex but executed flawlessly. When combined with the final animation, the overall effect is quite impressive.
Parts of the physical theatre feel a little chaotic, and this affects the overall flow of the piece, as it’s almost like two different productions have been welded together. This fever dream approach works in its own way in terms of symbolism - and for the cabaret scenes it’s perfect - but it did take me out of the story momentarily while my brain adjusted to the change. Some of the comedy also jars slightly and feels a little forced and unnecessary.
Nevertheless, The Animator is a truly fascinating story that shines a light on yet another forgotten visionary. I left wanting to read more about Lotte, write a book about her and watch the full film she and her team produced. If that doesn’t speak volumes then I don’t know what does!
The Animator plays at Southwark Playhouse Borough until 30 August
★ ★ ★ ★
