Hello again!
This week myself, along with some of the Bleeding Edge Theatre Company members, had the delight in watching The Pretend Men’s “critically acclaimed theatrical blockbuster” (Heritage Arts, 2017), Police Cops in Space. The multi award-winning comedy trio lead us through Sammy’s journey to outer space, creating a playful performance that combined inventive physical storytelling with their own brand of comedic text. Their “vibrant theatre leaves a lasting impression” (Heritage Arts, 2017) due to its quick and witty nature while having a 80s ‘low sci-fi’ comedy theme.
This high energy and action packed theatre performance proved very successful due to a variety of aspects. I particularly noticed how the company’s simple props and costumes created a dramatic effect. As each actor played multiple roles, the costumes allowed for quick changes, while still clearly showing who everyone was on stage at all times. The comedic costume choices also allowed for the audience to use their imagination, as swimming caps became alien features and a hooded gown instantly created the old story teller. This was really helpful for me to see as the groups costume designer, because it will be vital for us to have loose, simple clothing to enable quick for changes, as our piece includes actors with various character representations.
Each character within Police Cops in Space was distinctive through colour choices. Ranger wore a bright blue body suit as his ‘space suit’, such costume choices instantly help set each character apart. This has helped me consider colour schemes, as I would like to use neutral colours for the actors when they are part of the physical theatre ensemble, while more distinctive clothing can go on top for their individual characters. Working closely with Props Manager Sam, we have agreed to have the extra layers of costume inside the boxes we are using as props to enable fast changes on stage.
It was brilliant to see the actors having fun during the performance, as some moments were clearly improved from the laughter they were trying to conceal. It goes to show that when an audience can see you having fun with your characters, they become a lot more memorable. I thoroughly enjoyed Police Cops in Space and am pleased to have gained some exciting ideas from their superb performance!
-Molly, Costume Designer.
INKA off.
Works cited
The Pretend Men (2017) POLICE COPS IN SPACE- The Pretend Men are back with this critically acclaimed theatrical blockbuster. Unknown: Heritage Arts. Available from https://vaultfestival.com/whats-on/police-cops-in-space/ [accessed 27 March 2018].
Parkinson, N., Hunt, Z. and Roe, T. (2018) Police Cops in Space [live performance]. Performed by The Pretend Men. Lincoln: Lincoln Performing Arts Centre, 22 February.