Reader Reviews
Rent (Cockpit Theatre, Inner London)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | I actually agree with the reviewer in this case. The word amateur, in my opinion, should not be used because of whether the actors are being paid, or the venue, but because the production gave an amateur impression. In my opinion this can be attributed to the fact that some of the songs could not be heard due to the too-loud band, or that some of the chorus actors were enthusiastic to the point of over-acting. Regardless of what training each cast member has had, it is what is presented on stage that matters and an amateur vibe was, I agree, projected. Overall the play was enjoyable and powerful, but I think in some cases, i.e. the volume of the band and acting of the chorus, less is more and could be fine tuned by the production team. - Jemima | 24 Oct 12 |
| I haven't actually seen the show yet but I would like object to your use of the word 'amateur' in this review. Whilst technically this is correct (the actors are not being paid), I can't help but feel it sends out the message that the performers and creatives are untrained and are doing it as a hobby.Every single one of the performers have worked professionally (some to a considerable extent) within the industry or have trained and graduated from accredited drama schools. It puts a negative slant on what is otherwise a good review of the show. I can't help but feel, had the show been on at a more prestigious fringe venue (The Union, Greenwich Theatre etc) the word 'amateur' would not have been used. Particularly with the goings-on of the last week (ie: the negative reviews of Loserville) I think we should be sticking together to help new producers not downgrading the show in the second word of the review. By all means, offer your opinion but let's stick together and help musical theatre and the performers and creatives in our industry. - Jennifer Potts | 23 Oct 12 |
