Life of Pi: Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury
24th October 2023
★★★★★
Life of Pi – the critically acclaimed five-star hit show which has won every major play award including five Oliviers is on its first ever tour across the UK and is currently at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury. Life of Pi is based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel and tells the story of Pi who is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive? Life of Pi is a story of hope and endurance, spirituality, and the power of storytelling.
Visually impressive; this production cannot fail to take audiences on a magical adventure. The wonderful video projections by Andrzej Goulding truly bring the set to life. From the rippling waves and vivid storms to days at sea being tallied by an old-fashioned typewriter, each adds another layer and element to the stunning show. Lighting by Tim Lutkin and Tim Deiling is marvellous and is used beautifully to tell the story and add emotion. Tim Hatley’s set is at times simple like the stark walls of the hospital and at other times a feast for the eyes such as the family’s Zoo or the hustling market place in India. Mix this with Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes‘ incredible puppets and Life of Pi is a joy to watch. The puppets themselves are constructed of what looks like driftwood and other flotsam, perfectly in keeping with the show and a clever reminder that this is only one version of what may have happened to Pi. The puppetry of each animal from the fish, to the giraffe and of course the Royal Bengal tiger himself is magnificent; bringing the animals to life as if they are living and breathing onstage. It is easy to quickly lose sight of the talented puppeteers and become transfixed by the spectacular animals onstage but all credit must be given to these incredibly talented performers.
The plot is a journey itself as the audience is introduced to Pi, the boy who survived 227 days adrift at sea. The scenes quickly transition between the past and present, his vivid memories often blurring into the present day. The use of the video projections and clever lighting brings the emotion to the forefront, particularly during the dramatic storm scenes and later when Pi is fighting for survival on the one remaining life boat. The story is full of emotion and Divesh Subaskaran is a perfect leading actor. Despite this being his professional debut, he is engaging throughout, delivers every line with honest emotion and his commitment to the role is amazing. Never leaving the stage, Subaskaran shows a true feat of athleticism through the physically demanding show. All of the small cast are excellent with many of the actors playing multiple roles throughout.
Life of Pi is a thought provoking story brought to life by magnificent puppetry, stunning visuals and a clever dialogue. It is immediately evident why this production has gained so much praise and awards. Whether you have seen the film, read the book or done neither this is a magnificent production and well worth the price of a ticket if just to see the stunning puppets alone. Definitely make Life of Pi the play you see this year.
Life of Pi is running at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury until the 28th October 2023. For information and tickets click here.
Photo credit: Ellie Kurttz
Musical Manda 
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