4.5 stars
Weaving spoken word, storytelling, punk rage, and dance together in an eminently eloquent fashion, Untitled No. 7 explores notions of potential and constructs of success from a personal but entirely relatable point of view.
In this show, Telia Nevile brings forth a unique take on the fairytale genre and tells a compelling tale that looks at expectation and societal mores through a lighthearted but deeply affecting performance.
Image courtesy of Telia Nevile
With theatrical prowess that holds the audience’s attention throughout, Nevile depicts the protagonist’s journey through a fairytale forest in a style typical to the genre that’s without cliché and delivers a depth of meaning that extends beyond the limitations of any one genre, narrative, or idea.
As a coat of belief falls away and is replaced with a coat of determination, we see how imposed notions—even when well intentioned—can be perilous for the person they’re placed upon. We see how one’s stature in the metaphorical forest can change over time while not arriving at a fixed point; Nevile’s personal anecdotes deftly employed to convey how our notions of achievement and success are not only subjective but impermanent.
While the fairytale genre is a dominant element of this performance, it’s Nevile’s command of poetic form, seemingly straightforward stagecraft, and personal connection with her audience that stand out.
Untitled No. 7 features music that so expertly draws on conventions of the various genres the show calls for, you could miss that these are original compositions and not well-known songs.
Nevile’s stage presence is enrapturing. She doesn’t skip a beat and makes such genuine connection with the audience that the warmth within the story permeates even when exploring fear, doubt, and the haunting that comes with them.
Utilising fairytale genre tropes to exquisitely depict internal battles, this perfectly paced and structured piece rebuts conventional notions (to the point of a delicious punk take-down of Walt Disney) and reminds us that, really, we’re all untitled.
When potential becomes a concept that traps and incapacitates, it’s determination and resilience that save us. And there is no knight in shining armour for that – we do it for ourselves and although it might not feel as cathartic as it maybe it should, it’s something.
Tickets available at TryBooking. Untitled No. 7 runs until 12 January.
JASMIN SEABROOK-BENSON