Carnival Messiah

Synopsis

Inspired by Handel's celebration of the story of Christ. Carnival Messiah uses the colourful, exuberant traditions of Trinidad carnival and folklore to create an electrifying stage musical. Singers, musicians and dances from around the world combine gospel, jazz, calypso and rock in a glorious fusion of contemporary and traditional music.

Our Review:

1 July 2002

Does it really matter that Geraldine Connor's Carnival Messiah is at bottom Jehovah-Lite, with the Son of God as a bit of a music hall turn? Well, if it does to you, then stick to Handel's oratorio and don't mess with this joyous cross-fertilisation with the Trinidad Carnival, for in this mix of Roman Catholic liturgy and Caribbean celebration of life the sheer size, colour and noise of Carnival sweep all before them.

Not that they are entirely unstoppable. The storyline from hilarious Annunciation through knockabout Nativity to Resurrection is carried in blessed little oases of calypso and physical comedy by Ram John Holder with just a guitar and a small band of minstrels. These are moments of relative calm which bring both laughter and narrative clarity to proceedings which otherwise rely on a barrage of largely undifferentiated sound.

For the rest, all is colour, extravagant costumes with massive wings and headdresses, hugely amplified rhythm and voice...

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Latest User Review

USER: Whatsonstage.com - 22 July 2002:

I first saw this production in the early 90's back in Huddersfield, as part of Bretton Halls lineup - even then the premise was alluring and the development of the production was taking shape. It was evident at that time of development that that I was a witness to a remarkable inclusive work of theatre. Although I have not seen the 1999 or 2002 productions I know, there is a community dimension to this theatre that is often overlooked. Add this element to the spectacle and you get the rare, the beautiful and potentially one of the truly liberating experiences in art....

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