Be More Chill

Now, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again for those at the back….the team at The Old Joint Stock is knocking it out of the park when it comes to producing outstanding theatre in a small, intimate space. This production of Be More Chill has once again reinforced why fringe theatre is so important and why supporting smaller venues is an absolute must. The level of detail, the quality of staging, the insanely talented cast and first class direction of this show has given The Old Joint Stock its own upgrade.

Talking of the cast, leading the pack as Jeremy Heere is Tom Dickerson who commanded the role so well, offering up incredible vocals and wonderful stage presence. Playing his best friend Michael is Jack Carr whose rendition of ‘Michael In the Bathroom’ was nothing short of show stopping, with so much emotion used to provide a full out story within a song, mindblowingly good! Each and every performer provided a polished and well rehearsed performance throughout the show and it was clear that they are fully bonded as a group.

The staging comprises of various TV screens of differing sizes. As we work our way through each scene, an image is displayed of a new level in a computer game keeping in theme with the virtual world of ‘The SQUIP’. The graphics were well thought out, even starting with a Star Wars themed rolling script as we started our journey into the unknown. Every element of the staging was well equipped in the storytelling and added extra layers to the overall feel of the show. We even got a glimpse into the next ambitious show The Old Joint Stock will be staging, needless to say ‘Superboy and the Invisible Girl’ will be a welcome sight in Birmingham very soon!