Review: How to Start a Riot, theSpace at Surgeons Hall (Venue 53)
Like a young Brian Cox of psychology, Michael Woodman gives fascinating insights into the way crowds behave, explores riots through history and breaks down what happened in August 2011, while playing catchy little numbers on the keyboard. He is joined by Callum Elliot-Archer and Joe Sellman-Leava who, aided by papier-mâché heads, form a chorus of characters.
Lighting plays a strong part in a piece where all opinions are picked apart equally, whether it’s those blaming the rioters as “mindless thugs” or an unequal society. A song embellishing a speech by David Cameron is a brilliantly funny piece of satire.
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Hide AdWhile the conclusion comes close to pinpointing why the riots happened, it feels like a more thorough analysis is still needed – one that, with a bit of development, this piece could achieve.
Until 25 August. Today 7:05pm.