WELCOME To Haiti reads the sign around the neck of a sinister stuffed dummy in a wheelchair, while a backdrop video projection briefly introduces the audience to the bloody history of that turbulent, impoverished Caribbean republic, which has witnessed genocide, slavery, rebellion, and a succession of dictatorships, coups and natural disasters.

Indeed, only this year, while visiting Haiti to devise this show, in collaboration with "vodou rock" band RAM and an all-Haitian cast, creator Brett Bailey found himself caught in the middle of the recent coup that ousted President Aristide into exile

But as well as permanent political unrest, Haiti also boasts a unique culture born from its collision of African, Caribbean and Western influences - including its infamous religion of vodou or voodoo - and a vibrant musical heritage.

Vodou Nation condenses all of the above into a spectacular, colourful, whirlwind musical trip though Haiti's history and culture, told through energetic live music, dance and visual imagery that ranges from nightmarish and grotesque to exuberant and vivid. Indeed, "trip" is an apt word - RAM mainman Richard Morse has compared Vodou Nation to psychedelic rock operas such as Tommy and The Wall.

Though the show is held together throughout by principal singer Lunise, as Anakaona, representing the spirit of Haiti, and Dieuvela Etienne as an ancient, rattle-wielding vodou priestess, it is eight-piece band RAM, and particularly, Morse's commanding presence on vocals and guitar, who are its heart and soul.

Visually, it's somewhat bewildering to start with - on the ground level are the band, on the stage the singers and dancers, and behind is the backdrop screen, where projected images add to the sensory overload.

But the narrative quickly finds focus, flowing between the on-stage action and RAM's songs.

While in the first half, suffering slaves cast off their chains to drive out their European overlords, by the second, the liberating warrior figure (Daniel Brevil) has become a bloated dictator, repressing his own people, against a chilling barrage of projected images of guns, dollars, flames and civil unrest - before the deposed dictator himself ends up in the underworld of vodou spirit Baron Samedi (Menahem Laurent).

RAM and the cast of singers and dancers gradually overcome the genteel Theatre Royal surroundings, building up a mighty head of steam as they layer their gorgeous vocal harmonies on top of riotous percussion rhythms, pumping electric bass and deft lead guitar.

Vodou Nation doesn't shrink from tackling the dark history of Haiti, but ultimately, it's the positive spirit of the joyful, roof-raising musical finale that stays with you.

A unique show, totally enjoyable and highly recommended.

Updated: 10:51 Wednesday, July 21, 2004