Break Out

 

Hip Hop sensation show, Break Out, throws together old school manoeuvres with slapstick capers, resulting in a curious mix of movement and farce.

The show's narrative revolves around five prisoners and their attempts to escape from prison, aided by the fortunate acquisition of a magical book. This equivalent of a break dancing bible reworks human civilisation into a decidedly hip-hop mould, re-interpreting history – B-boy style – from hieroglyphics to a surprising rendition of a dance twisted Swastika. Yet other than transforming the prisoners and everyone in its presence into beat-boxing, shape-throwing fiends it is unclear what purpose the dance bible has. Visually, the group are striking and employ many inventive theatrical tricks: small puppets, swirling spotlights, and audience participation are worked for comic effect. But the constant reappearance of the book is tedious.

Their strength and agility are matched by a style of slapstick comedy which appeals to the varied audience. The Break Out crew are exhilarating to watch and technically faultless, but unfortunately the narrative – a fudged attempt to link dance sequences – lets the show down.