Amadeus

It was quite a unique experience visiting the Pianodrome in Bruntsfield Community Hub. On arrival we were issued with cushions and a blanket which were most welcome as the Pianodrome has been built using upcycled pianos and is quite amazing,

This was the perfect venue for this first class production of Peter Shaffer’s play Amadeus. Played in-the-round using the various sections created by the set and with only a piano in the centre of the acting area, this production was totally atmospheric with its well chosen background music by Mozart and at times was quite bewildering. The intimacy of this small venue drew the audience in to the action and had them captivated.

Antonio Salieri, the Italian Composer, gives an insight into the life and work of his rival Mozart whom he eventually destroys. Ben Blow gave an absolutely outstanding, bold performance as the confident Salieri. Commanding the stage and with huge monolgues which were delivered so naturally and with apparent ease he portrayed the arrogant, jealous, sleezy and eventually broken Salieri with utter conviction. The contrast between the bold Salieri and the somewhat childish, naive Mozart was made even more apparent by the stature and physical appearance of these two characters. Caitlin Carter was a petite, dynamic, nimble Amadeus who brought great energy to the role and displayed contrasting emotions perfectly. Talented but penniless, the playful scenes between Amadeus and Constanze, a most vivacious Amelie Berry, were great fun. Eventually becoming man and wife both managed to comvey the turmoil in their relationship. The piano top was most cleverly used as an acting area whether it was for playing games and having fun or in contrast for laying out Mozarts body after his tragic death. These final scenes portraying the demise of Mozart were gripping and most moving.

Amber Lipman portrayed a most dignified Katherina Cavalieri who had a beautiful singing voice. Keeping the plot moving along were the gossipy duo Venticello 1 and 2. Sinclair Davis and Alan Sunter were a formidable pair bouncing off each other in their determination to tell all with their quick wit and quirky mannerisms The most regal Emperor Joseph II was brilliantly portrayed by Jonathan Whiteside who also brought out the humour in this character. His entourage Count Johan von Strack, Count Orsini-Rosenberg, Baron Gottfiried van Swieten and Kapellmeister Bonno were played with style and confidence by Ray Finlayson, Nicholas Thorne, Angela Milton and Chris Pearson respectfully.

Stunning costumes added to the splendour of this production. This was a flawless, powerful piece of theatre with its most innovative direction and characterisations. A wonderful production with an extremely talented cast. So refreshing to see something quite different in a most unusual venue. A thoroughly enjoyable experience.

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