Ragnarøkkr revisited

And so to the theatre. This time it was a maiden visit to the Holbeck Underground Ballroom, which isn't underground or a ballroom, but is, somewhat disappointingly, in Holbeck. The home of Slung Low it is essentially a studio theatre that's not attached to a main theatre if you follow me. It's a back street industrial unit which would otherwise house a car repair business or a metal plating workshop, situated just round the corner from the red light area. But don't let me put you off, it's a welcoming space full of old sofas, vegetarian Gujerati food, drinks at a quid each and the theatre operates on a 'see the show, pay what you think it deserves' basis. As an accountant that obviously goes against the grain a bit, but they're all young and idealistic so who am I to rain on their parade? Young, idealistic and in receipt of an Arts Council Grant.

The show in question was Temple Theatre's reworking of Norse Mythology 'Norsesome' wherein three men in beards and frocks portray all the gods in Asgard plus the occasional dweller in one of the middle realms, with the help of a few puppets along the way. It was very funny in places (one highlight was Thor being portrayed in a manner owing more than a little to Rik Mayall's Flashheart) with the casts physicality and energy compensating for the almost complete absence of scenery or props. They tour extensively and it's well worth seeing if you get the chance.