One-man movie show leaves audience spellbound at the Grassington Festival says guest blogger, Alexandra Glacet.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better…it did! After the world seemed to end weather wise, I have to say that I was reluctant to venture into the whirlwind of Grassington to see Bane: the one-man film show. I mean, it couldn’t be that good, could it? The stage this time was the Octagon within the Town Hall. The aptly named room is an intimate venue with a wonderful feel; and with the swirling dervish of Mother Nature thrashing the building, it felt good to be in such a cozy environment.
The floor empty apart from a single chair and guitar, we took our seats and waited for the unknown to begin. On came Ben Roe who laid claim to said chair and instrument and he slowly announced the entrance of Bruce Bane himself with a tune from the guitar. Bane, played by Joe Bone arrived to silent anticipation and began his tale of lead character Bruce, an unlikely anti-hero within a Tarantino style movie show. At first you think, “This is good”, until suddenly it hits you that Bone has fooled your brain into thinking you’re watching more than one actor in an utterly captivating plot packed full of comedy and intrigue.
Apart from the immaculately played guitar, all sound effects come from Bone’s lips, and along with the series of accents for the individual characters, the seemingly effortless noises are truly awesome. Joe Bone doesn’t so much as walk you through the story, as throw you into it with a whole body performance to inspire any budding actor and enthrall those already in the business. The energy and comedic timing given to each role is commendable and the thought behind every part of this show is obvious to see. From writing the initial script to the faultless accents and beautifully performed scenes, there isn’t a second when you’re confused or unable to follow what you’re seeing.
Joe is taking Bane to various stages across the country over the summer and we in Grassington are privileged to be able to witness his production during the annual festival. Bane is one worth catching and if (or should I say when?) someone takes it to the big time, you’ll regret not seeing it at one of the smaller venues, believe me.
So, for anyone wanting a truly unique and wonderfully entertaining evening I urge you to get tickets to see the remaining show in the Bane trilogy, tonight at the Town Hall Grassington, you won’t be disappointed!
www.brucebane.com
Reviewed by Alexandra Glacet
www.alexandraglacet.com