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Two Ladies: La Bella Bimba at Barons Court Theatre / Canal Cafe Theatre

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T hey sing. They dance. They clown around. They even wash clothes! Such is the story of La Bella Bimba, part of the Voila Theatre Festival, which highlights new and emerging artists. A tale of two Italian ladies who land in 1920s New York, trying to break into Broadway without speaking a word of English. It’s harmless, primarily even if a little nonsensical, and is currently playing as part of the Voila! Theatre Festival .  I caught the performance at the Barons Court Theatre , where the intimate setting created an evocative atmosphere reminiscent of dark New York alleyways. The space was almost claustrophobic with a distinct smell of rising damp, making you feel immersed in the story of two Ladies hanging around the theatre doors of Broadway. On the plus side, the theatre has some of the most comfortable seats you will find in any pub theatre in London. As the naive and hopeful singers, Co-creator Lucrezia Galeone as Carlotta and Sarah Silvestri as Cecilia are fine singers with co...

Previews on Power: Truth to Power Cafe


Truth To Power Cafe is a part digital and live performance event that’s coming to Huddersfield and South Norwood in London later this month. Using memories, poetry, images and music, it takes stories from local people at each location, asking the question who has power over you and what do you want to say to them?’ Be it parents, leaders or a bossy partner. It’s a chance to tell them the truth for once.

The concept is a means of conflict resolution and a way of saying something to those in a position of trust or authority who may not want to hear it.

Created by Jeremy Goldstein, his experiences frame the start of each performance. He uses poetry, music and performance to talk about his struggles with his father before he invites others to come forward and share their experiences. 

Truth to Power Cafe is written and performed by Jeremy Goldstein with Henry Woolf. The event has completed a run as part of Rotherham’s Children’s Capital of Culture Launch. It heads to Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield on 19 March and Stanley Arts in South Norwood on 27 March.

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