Photo credit: Anthony Robling
Upstaged Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Written by Richard Thomas and Stewart Lee, Jerry Springer – The Opera caused a storm when it first played at the National Theatre in 2003. Steeped in controversy, it caused an even bigger ruckus (despite airing after the watershed, with explicit warnings) when it was broadcast by the BBC in 2005. Now in a brilliantly gaudy, no-holds-barred revival at Hope Mill, the production still feels especially relevant.
Outlandish and always entertaining, the appeal of the production lies in its ability to smash together high art – opera and stunning vibrato – with the profanity and lewdness of Jerry’s TV show. James Baker’s fabulous direction flaunts this juxtaposition of genres – no opportunity is spared.
Giving the impression of a live TV studio, the audience sit on either side of the stage. Taking the format of The Jerry Springer Show, different groups of guests enter the stage to confess their dirty secrets, screw-ups and deepest desires. There’s shouting, plenty of swearing and more than one skirmish (just like the real show), but Security Steve has everything under control.
The show gets progressively more surreal in the second half when Jerry finds himself in a satanic underworld, governing a dispute of biblical proportions.
It’s one hell (pardon the pun) of a show to stage in Hope Mill Theatre’s intimate performance space, but it works. Each beautifully delivered lewd lyric translates perfectly and Sindy Richardson’s choreography is carried out with precision and vigor.
On a slightly deeper level, the show explores the moral responsibility of the media. With the current demand for reality TV shows like Love Island and programmes like Jeremy Kyle being axed, there’s certainly a discussion to be had. Do these shows provide a valid commentary on society or are they deeply damaging?
It is hard to find any fault with James Baker’s production. A hugely talented cast and Victoria Hinton-Albrieux’s gorgeously gross design make Jerry Springer – The Opera a striking and unmissable night out.
-Kristy Stott
Jerry Springer – The Opera runs at Hope Mill Theatre until 31 August.