Tarantino Live celebrates everything intriguing, iconic, and violent surrounding film writer, producer and director Quentin Tarantino. From the brutal Reservoir Dogs hit men to the ill-fated date at the diner in Pulp Fiction. Created by Los Angeles company For The Record, now bought by Riverside Studios where it’s adapted and produced for the stage by Anderson Davies.
Mia (Tara Lee) and George Maguire (Vincent) revive the dance competition in the Diner. Where Mia decided she wanted to win the trophy regardless of how much Vincent held back, to begin with.
Many of the characters from Pulp Fiction, Inglorious Bastards, Kill Bill, Jackie Brown and Django Unchained have been created to blend in with the style of Tarantino. Jumping from one scene to the next and returning further on in the performance. You don’t have to be familiar with his films to enjoy Tarantino Live but I would strongly suggest you watch at least one of his films to understand how he produces them.
Karen Mav in the role of Jackie Brown gave an outstanding performance as the high-flying air stewardess and drug smuggler in the film Jackie Brown. Smart, confident and in full control of her performance. Refusing to be taken advantage of she wants a slice of the money and a first-class wardrobe to match, that is exactly what she is going to have.
Although the seating is arranged in sections named after the Reservoir Dog hitmen with varying prices to match. Don’t let this put you off. The Theatre layout allows all members of the audience unrestricted views of all the actions taking place. The closer you are to the stage, the more immersed you find yourself in the action. Depending on which experience you prefer book your seats accordingly.
With a strong cast and superb band leading the evening the performance is loud, thrilling and action-packed accompanied by some first-class singing. Just the same as many of Tarantino films it’s strictly over 16’s only.
Scenic designer Matthew Steinbrenner brings together many of the scenes from the movies. Combining a high-speed car chase, the diner, Mia’s home and various other recognisable settings. With fast action scene changes taking place it appears to flow faultlessly.
For more information about this production and future performances at the Riverside Studios please use the links below.
Four Stars
Photo credit Julie Edwards.
https://riversidestudios.co.uk/see-and-do/tarantino-live-71709/tarantino-live-71709/
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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