★★★
Evita. One of the most recognised and celebrated women in history (and musical theatre realms). However, I feel ashamed to admit that I, like the vast majority I’m sure will agree, have taken Rice & Webber’s account of her as pure gospel. I am pleased to say that I was proved entirely wrong when I attended Sh!t Theatre’s latest documentary theatre piece at Soho Theatre.
From the vague synopsis on the website, it is easy to walk into this production with a totally open mind - which is both needed and valuable. Becca & Louise delve into the life of Isabel Peron (Peron’s third wife who came after Eva, who actually was the first female president of Argentina), and take you on a journey through the highs and lows in their highly regarded satirical manner.
Like their synopsis, I am reluctant to go into too much detail about the show in this review as I firmly believe that this is a key factor of what makes the show so enjoyable - the pleasure of entering the unknown.
As is with their loved style of documentary theatre, Evita Too not only provides cleverly constructed comedic one-liners, but an extremely well researched insight into Isabel’s life and legacy. The show is a somewhat chaotic mixed bag of hard hitting facts, comedy sketches and mega musical numbers -it really has something for everyone (spoiler; even audience participation).
The simplistic setting of the theatre enabled me to fully relax into the show - also thanks to their witty writing. Although Sh!t Theatre is by no means a full scale glitz and glamour production team, the efforts and creativity behind the simplistic scenery/props really benefited the show - whilst offering a light hearted nod to the current financial circumstances I’m sure we’re all feeling.
I arrived at this show not really sure what I’d make of it, and I must say I left pleasantly surprised.
Evita Too performs at Soho Theatre until 15 Oct 2022. Book your tickets here.
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