Black Fish and Makin Projects’ Alaska brought something different to the Theatre Royal Studio last Tuesday, courtesy of Giles King and Craig Johnson, a duo from Cornish theatre company Kneehigh, who made use of unusual techniques to convey their slightly bizarre but enjoyable tragicomedy.

The production unfolds like a video, commentated on by Dr Pepperdine (Johnson), who pauses, rewinds and fast-forwards this “interactive seminar”.

Centred on Justin (King), a former slob who is trying to “stand on his own two feet”, the plot tells the story of his escapades in the Alaskan wilderness.

Alaska provides funny, light-hearted entertainment, but fails to leave any lasting impression. This is due to the struggle to feel any attachment to Justin as his adventure develops. Perhaps the term “tragicomedy” is not quite right, as tragedy was only a background element. As for the comedy, it worked well when it came naturally, but sometimes felt over-rehearsed.

The use of “film, firelight and shadow”, as promised in the blurb, was less obvious than expected. Unfortunately the camp fire required the use of a lighter borrowed from the audience!

Spectators were given oversized puppets and coloured torches, and this interaction kept the audience amused as the performance progressed. The lights and plastic snow certainly gave the impression of a violent snow storm, but the feeling of minus 40 degrees C cold may have just been the chilly studio. The set, mostly made from sleeping bags, was used impressively on the small stage.

Ultimately, this informal production demonstrated dramatic flair and personality in an intimate performance, but gave the impression of being a passing amusement for the producers.

Review by Lydia Winter