Pumping soundtrack, slick video footage, idealistic young people getting chewed up by the system - this is classic Calipo Theatre Company. This time co-writers Martin Maguire and Darren Thornton explore the pop industry as four young hopefuls and their manager are revamped by a record company to become the new Irish environmentally-friendly pop sensation "Hits".
Calipo's multi-media style is again in evidence. And once more director Darren Thornton proves himself to be a master behind the camera, confidently playing with styles to lampoon a host of subjects (including the superb Killer X with his Dublin rap anthem Kill the Ponies!). However, unlike Calipo's previous production, Xaviers, where the film was embedded within the narrative (and the set itself), here the supremacy of the video is completely out of keeping with the peripheral nature of its subject matter. Dominated by a huge central screen, the stage is literally overshadowed by the succession of spoof on-screen pop interviews, promos and news reports which, although providing some of the funniest moments of the play, hamper its overall pace and structure.
In contrast, the live action seems somewhat neutered, not as slick and stylish as its screen counterpart, and unable to find a strong identity of its own. The cast take on multiple roles, which works well on camera, but is confusing on stage. There are some wonderful dance routines, with Maclean Burke showing a particular flair for physical parody. But, although the cast display great energy and commitment, only Anne-Marie McAuley has the necessary vocal ability required to differentiate between characters. Makin' Hits has a lot of style and panache. The show over-flows with energy and ideas, clever parodies and smart lines. What it lacks is tension. Something at stake to carry us through the two hours plus. If Calipo could just find that, maybe then they'd have a hit on their hands.
Runs until November 11th; to book phone 041-9833946. Tours to the Project Arts Centre, Dublin, from November 13th-18th; to book phone 1850-260027
