PERICLES REDUX
Not Man Apart - Physical Theatre Ensemble
Los Angeles Premiere Reviews
Los Angeles Times
“Exhilarating and propulsive, ‘Pericles Redux’ is Shakespeare with the excitement of a Lakers game: a blend of precision athleticism and zen cool... Shakespeare junkies, theater artists, and fans of both Joseph Campbell and Keanu Reeves will find plenty to marvel at, argue over and possibly steal. The supple cast, most playing multiple roles, spins this tale with equal parts grace and slapstick. There are echoes of Pilobolus Dance, Fellini and Mary Zimmerman but also “The Matrix,” Monty Python and reality TV. This is a show that vaults you into the imagination with the force of a dream. The image of Pericles twisting in the hands of the silent fates will haunt you. He is any and all of us.”
--Charlotte Stoudt
Hollywood Reporter
“A futuristic theater company. Leading the way as Pericles, dancer-choreographer John Farmanesh-Bocca and Not Man Apart's Physical Theatre Ensemble create a Fellini-esque theatrical work that threshes relentlessly through the carnage of evil. Blending high art with low comedy, slapstick humor with acrobatic dance and throwing in occasional bouts of moonlit poetry, "Pericles Redux" hurls itself at the audience. Ingeniously and passionately adapted from the original, what starts out as a superb action thriller because of the fights, the sex, the glamour and a riotous assortment of clowns turns out to have a complementary, darkly symbolic side pitting social values against pathological evil… it is beautifully spoken and handsomely acted, and so seamlessly and naturally constructed that after awhile, it feels like a kind of circus fantasy happening in the theater, an effect heightened by a bracing, minimal staging that maintains focus on personal relationships no matter how intense the action. Each brilliantly costumed member of this troupe of 14 can do it all: jump, leap, clown, pout, sing, dance and even act.”
--Laurence Vittes
LA Weekly
Pick of the Week! - “Incorporating aspects of Grotowski's Poor Theater, choreographer and director John Farmanesh-Bocca's brilliant interpretation, Pericles Redux, employs music, dance and comic spectacle… Played out on a large bare proscenium, the ensemble proves versatile and accomplished, with significant contributions to staging from fight captain Dash Pepin and co-choreographer and dance captain Vincent Cardinale."
--Deborah Klugman
Backstage
“Director-choreographer John Farmanesh-Bocca knows what he wants in his retelling of Pericles, Prince of Tyre, and he thrives best when bringing his dancer's sensibilities to the mix. When this cast is performing his arresting choreography, the presentation instantly turns from simply average to genuinely thrilling. When these devoted players move their bodies to Farmanesh-Bocca's raw-boned choreography and embrace his intrinsic sense of performance art, they transform. Farmanesh-Bocca made his best casting decision with Vincent Cardinale, Dash Pepin, and Jones Welsh, three shave-domed and shirtless albino Blue Men types called The Fates. Whether interpreting his angular moves or testing their skills with iambic pentameter, whenever onstage, the production is its most electrifying."
--Travis Michael Holder
CurtainUp.com
Jerzy Grotowski, whose Poor Theatre Farmanesh-Bocca is looking to emulate, would have approved. What's not to like? A tricky, often unwieldy "classic" has been camped up, burlesqued and infused with massive jolts of energy and creativity. Not Man Apart has done this while leaving Shakespeare's language intact. Orchestrating the proceedings as he does with liberal amounts of comic hijinks and athletic dance, Farmanesh-Bocca is himself a strong and no nonsense Pericles. New though she is to the ensemble, Jennifer Landon adds humor and ingénue intrigue to the dual role of Pericles's loving wife Thaisa and daughter Marina.
--Evan Henerson
Stagehappenings.com
Mere words cannot fully express the awesome and riveting spectacle of Not Man Apart’s loose adaptation of Shakespeare’s romantic odyssey. With its limited run at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, one should scroll past my enthusiastic diatribe and reserve tickets for this rare, unforgettable evening of postminimalist infused theatrical dance that is as sensually provocative as it is absurdly delightful. Don’t let the title of the play intimidate you. “Pericles Redux” is just that, a revisioned, broad-stroked embellishment of the text made highly accessible for all audiences. Relying heavily on interpretative dance, a moody, repetitive score and spellbinding tableaus, the tragicomic tale of “Pericles, Prince of Tyre” is beautifully wrought through carefully woven vignettes and fantastic archetypal images further illuminated by Randy Brumbaugh’s stunning light design.
John Farmanesh-Bocca brings this “smashed together” production of innovative minimalism and anthropomorphic physicality with a little extra star power of three-time Emmy Award winning Jennifer Landon, daughter of the late Michael Landon. Much like her dual roles on As the World Turns, Landon proves she has the chops and the pipes, playing both Queen Thaisa and her daughter, Marina, with a vibrant energy and tremendous range.
Every cast member is par excellence, Farmenesh-Bocca is this show’s triple threat: lead actor, director and choreographer, which in less capable hands might come across as downright hubris, but under his sharp eye for sweeping storytelling and ingenious use of space, physically and technically, Farmenesh-Bocca’s collaborative spirit reveals him as a genuine Renaissance man. His Pericles is devastatingly charming and properly empathetic, aged simply but effectively in the second act. This rare gem will have you saying “Wow!” every ten minutes or so after leaving the theatre.
--MR Hunter
Not Man Apart – Physical Theatre Ensemble
at the 2oo8 Edinburgh Fringe Festival
- Pericles Redux -
directed, adapted and choreographed by John Farmanesh-Bocca
“The superb seven-strong cast take us on a journey that’s hard to forget…
don’t be surprised to find yourself laughing and crying at the same time…
Farmanesh-Bocca is a formidable talent.”
“A truly exceptional show…I left the theatre elated - this is an absolute must-see”
Critic’s Choice - Top 4 Picks of the Fringe
Critic’s Top Pick - #1 of top 5 of the Fringe
CRITIC’S PICK – TOP 10 PICK FOR THE FINAL WEEK!
“Physical comedy is definitely a strength for Not Man Apart.
John Farmanesh-Bocca carries the weight of the titular and more serious character of Pericles, gracefully, combining both the light-hearted with the grave. The reunion with his daughter is very moving.”
METRO
“Joyously Daft! It's witty, well thought through and visually imaginative…
Farmanesh-Bocca – who scooped a Fringe First Award directing last year's
Wish I Had A Sylvia Plath – confirms himself as an exciting, innovative talent.”
Hairline.org.uk
Director John Farmanesh-Bocca has done an excellent job of creating a beautiful production… helped along by a brilliant seven strong cast… a stunning production and well worth the fantastic word of mouth praise it has been receiving.
“A fusion of muscularity, humour and verse” – 
“A ballet of virile agility… the movement is so impressive” – Broadway Baby
“The endless tossing storms to which Pericles is subjected are beautifully realized…
This cast is very skilled and have genuine physical prowess” –
“Not Man Apart seem to have developed quite a following.” 
The Scotsman – U.K. Review
The full 5 Star Review by Kelly Apter
Pericles Redux
Not Man Apart - Physical Theatre Ensemble
AS WITH most Shakespearean works, it can take a few minutes to ease yourself into the language of Pericles Redux, to get your head around who's who, where they're going and what they're going to do when they get there – especially if you're not familiar with the original play.
During this early talk of kings, governors and far-off lands, Californian theatre company Not A Man Apart keep us going with the sheer physicality of movement. Then, once we're engrossed in the storyline, the goods just keep on coming. Character after character is rolled out, each different from the last, brought sharply to life by the superb seven-strong cast.
For those without prior knowledge, Pericles is the tale of a prince forced to flee his homeland by an incestuous king. Traveling from city to city, he finds new friends and, eventually, a wife and child, until tragedy strikes, leaving him bereft of both – or so he thinks.
This tragicomic play is ripe with potential – all of which director John Farmanesh-Bocca exploits to the full. Moments of athletic dance pepper the action without a hint of incongruity, with lifts and jumps serving only to drive the show along. What captures us most, however, is the extremity of emotion. One moment the air is thick with heartbreaking poignancy, the next it's almost panto-esque with hilarious characterisation. And as the story reaches its climax, don't be surprised to find yourself laughing and crying at the same time.
Using minimal set, the show relies more on its actors – and their costumes – for its striking appearance. The shaven heads of three of the men can't fail to have an impact, especially when one of them plays jealous mother, Dionyaza, literally dressed to kill in red cocktail dress and high heels.
As the beleaguered prince, Farmanesh-Bocca is a formidable talent, and leads his cast, and us, on a journey hard to forget.
Three Weeks – U.K. Review
The full 5 Star Review by Frances Allen
Pericles Redux
Not Man Apart - Physical Theatre Ensemble
When I see a truly exceptional show, I feel I need about 2,000 words to do it justice, and this is certainly the case with this performance. Combining comedy, dance, physical theatre and tragedy, this production ticks every box and gets it spot on. Each actor was superb, their characterisation was great, their mimes were incredible, and dance and physical elements were outstanding. The comedic moments were perfectly pitched, and the costume changes were the fastest I have ever seen. At the end the story is shown in reverse very quickly which is an interesting, unusual and successful idea. I left feeling elated - this is an absolute must see.
EdFringe.com
Over Twenty 5 Star Audience Reviews On-Line!
These are excerpts from the audience review page at the main Fringe Festival website
My only regret is I can't see it again. 25 Aug 2008
reviewer: Carly Dwyer, USA
Not Man Apart has created the most perfect show I have seen. The marriage of physical theatre, dance acrobatics, wonderfully acted Shakespeare and humor avoids any pretenses audiences may feel towards experimental theatre. Character development for this cast is so acute that even the grunting awkward prostitute and the ugly duckling princess, whom Shakespeare didn't develop, become whole, sympathetic and integral to the story. I never missed any of the cut text and applaud how their clean choreography and masterful handling of the remaining text made one of Shakespeare's more confusing adventures smooth and accessible. I do hope this is not the last we see of this show or this remarkable company.
Best Show I Saw At the Fringe 23 Aug 2008
reviewer: C, USA
I saw this show on the recommendation of my director, and was the only one from our group to see the show. My only regret about being alone in seeing this show is that I have no one with whom to talk about it. Easily the best show I saw at the Fringe this year, Pericles Redux combines complex physical choreography with superb acting from all seven performers. The character of Pericles was definitely the best. The 3 bald men alternated between playing characters and, when shirts were removed, changed into the fates with amazing movements. Using only a platform and two white sails for a set, I was entranced for the entire show. Never before have I seen such wonderful dance and great comic performances combined so well into one 1.5 hour show. Would most certainly be worth a doubled ticket price, but is a bargain at only 7.50 (for me). I'm already seeing when I have a free weekend during the school year to go down to NYU Tisch to talk with the director again (Pericles).
Fall in Love with Pericles Redux 23 Aug 2008
reviewer: Fringe fan from Seattle, USA
On August 4th I fell in love with Pericles Redux. My love drew me back to the Pleasance Courtyard again on August 16th. Never has poor theatre been so rich. Never human bodies so like the sea, like the passing of time, like heartache. The warm music of strings provides a vehicle for choreography which does no less than make love to every spellbinding moment of this brilliant piece of theatre! The wonderfully talented Not Man Apart ensemble breathes life into every clever bit of humor and every point of grief in Shakespeare's epic story of love, loss and reunion. This show will send your serotonin level through the ceiling. You will fall in love with Pericles Redux, Not Man Apart, and John Farmanesh-Bocca.
Amazing! 20 Aug 2008
reviewer: Gerald Young, USA
This piece of theatre is one of the most amazing works I have been privileged to see. It takes your breath away. It is the perfect combination of movement and text and dance... THIS IS A MUST SEE FOR EVERYONE. The choreography is incredibly tight and witty... there are comical elements throughout the piece that you will laugh about for days! DO NOT COME TO THE FRINGE AND NOT SEE THIS SHOW!
I am a theatre lover, not critic, but... 20 Aug 2008
reviewer: Low Fat Mike, New Zealand
Here are three words that do nothing to express how great this is... stupendous, magnificent, articulate!
Fabulous 19 Aug 2008
reviewer: Meg, England
See this. So entertaining, funny, moving, physical etc etc. Loved it.
This is the best show I have ever seen! - 17 Aug 2008
reviewer: peter cockerill, England
My friends and I booked this show based upon the rating in the Scotsman. However we had no idea what a fantastic time we were in for. Quite simply this is the best show I have ever seen. There were no weak links in this performace. I'm sure the greatest writer who has ever lived would have been delighted to see how his words were brought to life by this company. The acting,the emotion, the athletisism, the humour, delivered a spectical I will remember for ever. It made me cry, (and laugh). I get goosebumps when I think about it now. It was incredible. Thank you Not Man Apart!
Not to be missed... 18 Aug 2008
reviewer: Cate, USA
From the moment the show started until the show ended, I was on the edge of my seat. All of the actors/performers were so very precise in their movements and in their story telling that even audience members not familiar with "Pericles" walked away loving the story. I laughed, I cried, and I found myself constantly amazed at the physical picture on-stage. This is truly a show not to be missed.
Excellent entertainment - 17 Aug 2008
reviewer: Peter, UK
If you didn't know that Pericles was Shakespeare and think this would put you off, don't worry. It is nothing like a Shakespeare play but if you don't know the story you absolutely must read the synopsis they hand out first to understand the entertainment. Strength, agility, dramatic effect are all present with a raunchy and very humourous delivery. A brilliant show.
Just LOVED this show! - 16 Aug 2008
reviewer: Julie, Scotland
This is REALLY one of the MUST see's of the 2008 Fringe! Firstly I urge you to definitely pick up a programme when you go in to see the performance and read the synopsis of this Shakespeare play to help you get an idea what is going on if you don't already know the plot as it's a pretty convoluted story. It was most unusual and but utterly wonderful and spellbinding performance, full of energy, blended with physical theatre, humour, amazing costumes, character changes and marvellous acting and it flowed beautifully and perfectly. I just didn't want it to end. This is certainly a company to keep looking out for, One of the BEST things I've seen at this year's Fest!
An absolute Must-See - 14 Aug 2008
reviewer: Theatre Professional, Hong Kong
This was a stupendous, generous performance of inspired total theatre from a small, hugely talented cast, and brilliantly directed. By turns witty, moving, exhilarating, sexy, hilarious, poignant and mostly a combination of all three, Pericles Redux was a great joy from start to finish. The thrust of the production is the athletic, high-octane physical theatre and character-driven dance, though all in the service of ultra-clear story telling. Shakespeare’s text, though ‘reduxed’ is masterfully and expressively delivered, the heightened language complemented by the movement and music. This is no tedious recitation of out-of-date text, but a joyful, high-energy romp, at times irreverent, a dramatic, intelligent, multi-layered production, challenging the audience yet never obscure, always exciting. There are no weak links here, the entire cast has mastered the skills necessary for total physical theatre, from Marina as a child all the way up to Pericles, also the production’s director. With lightning-fast costume changes, character after character appears, each clearly defined using the most economical of means, and all played by five of the cast. The timing is impeccable, fast-paced for the most part so that the actors have earned the pauses when they come, which are thereby genuinely dramatic. By the end you are laughing and crying at the same time. You don’t believe me? Overturn heaven and earth to get a ticket, and see for yourself. One of the best things I have seen this year, anywhere.
Great work! - 13 Aug 2008
reviewer: Fiona, UK
Passionate and fast-paced, I thought this was a treat! I'd love to see what this company could do on a bigger budget.
A troupe to keep an eye on! - 12 Aug 2008
reviewer: Katherine, USA
I was so glad to begin my 2008 Fringe festival experience with Pericles Redux. I was in tears at certain points for the sheer breathtaking and imaginative choreography. Not A Man Apart performs Shakespeare as he should be performed: at once dramatic & comedic, passionate & wry. The troupe has an incredible sense of timing and execution - I'm really looking forward to seeing them again!
Incredible! - 11 Aug 2008
reviewer: Emily, England
This is one of the best performances I've seen, I was mesmerised all the way through. The dancers are incredibly talented and the story of Pericles was shown in a beautifully imaginative way. Definitely get yourself a ticket!
How can it get less than 4*? - 10 Aug 2008
reviewer: Oli , UK
Having seen the show earlier today, it is a fantastic piece of physical theatre - Simultaneously very adventurous and funny while telling the story very clearly. I am very suspicious of anyone who is rating this show below ****
Fast and Flowing - 10 Aug 2008
reviewer: Glynis, UK
It is clear that this is a show you either love or hate. We went with a mixed group including a 14 year old who is not keen on dance. All of us were spellbound. I was worried that the incestuous relationship would be too grafic in its portrayal in fact it was very well suggested. I found the whole performance a delight and would reccommend it to my friends. It is a show I would watch again.
Incredible - 09 Aug 2008
reviewer: Kevin, Edinburgh
I came to this show on the recommendation of two good friends. I had never seen Pericles, nor do I know much about physical theatre or dance. However after a captivating and mesmerising time spend at this performance I never wanted it to end, It’s clear there is a mixed reception to this. Go see it and judge for yourself. Excellent, thank you. World class.
Pysical theatre at its best! - 09 Aug 2008
reviewer: zoe, uk
The sheer energy and athletic prowess of these guys would make this show worth watching. But add to that the fact that all the movement is integral to the story, creating scenes such as the storm at sea, working with the Shakespearean text to create a smooth, flowing whole and you begin to see what physical theatre should be about. You don't need to know the original to follow and enjoy the story - this is accessible and enjoyable to anyone. Very impressive - go see it!
Pericles - 07 Aug 2008
reviewer: Ali McFarlane, Fife
I thought this was absolutely fantastic. I laughed and cried through it and was inspired by the actors onstage. I loved the performance and even if you're not a fan of shakespeare or don't know the story you will understand what's going on all the way through. Loved it.
Bold Venture - 04 Aug 2008
reviewer: Alastair Lyall, United Kingdom
This is a very ambitious production, in the very crossover from physical theatre to dance while still following the Shakespeare text. It's not entirely successful: for instance, the voice projections are variable, but maybe that's an unfair quibble, given all the leaping about. Some of the comedy didn't sit comfortably within the piece as a whole and I think Shakespeare purists will feel short-changed. But, these reservations aside, it was a very enjoyable experience that the sparse Saturday preview audience clearly loved. Hopefully the word gets around and people come in greater numbers.
Sophisticated Shakespeare - 04 Aug 2008
reviewer: Champagne Cocktail, United Kingdom
The beautiful tale about the life of mariner Prince of Tyre, Pericles, is gracefully and elegantly brought to life in this gorgeous show. In just 75 minutes, the ensemble manage to fully convey this complex story mixed with dance. The characters are well-formed, and the actors really grasped Shakespeare's words which they delivered with conviction. There is a good balance of light and dark and they get the best out of the humourous areas. But I particularly enjoyed the physicality of the dance elements which added an almost ethereal quality. Some terrific and very well executed choregraphy by an ensemble of very fit bodies. As I am quite familiar with the story, I guess I'm going to have high expectations and in this respect, would have liked to see a greater level of romance and sensuality between Pericles and Thaisa when they first meet: their 'mating' dance was too comical for me. I was moderately moved by the recognition scene. And due to doubling constraints, the ending where Marina is betrothed to Lysimachus looked a bit odd for me. This is a superb, high-quality, well-paced production and I was delighted to meet the cast afterwards to give them this feedback. It is an exemplar for this year's Fringe and I thoroughly recommend it to you. I really hope it does well.
Fine entertainment - 03 Aug 2008
reviewer: Susan Owen, United Kingdom
Was it Dance? Was it Theatre? Was it Drama? Was it Comedy? It was all of these and more. Made me laugh, cry and wonder with admiration for this highly professional cast. Thanks to Shakespeare for the basics but expertly well adapted and referenced. Good luck guys!
From BoredTonight.com - Fringe Audience Review Site.
reviewer: Judd Felmer
"Well that was amazing!" was the first thing out of the woman's mouth in front of me when the lights went out. Nuff said, I think. I was simply amazed at the ambitious undertaking of what those actors did. I really want this show to do well. I've never written a review before but this company is something else. They earned this from me today. Go see "Pericles Redux"!!!
Who should go see it?
theatre and non-theatre goers. It moves as fast as any movie today. I didn't know Shakespeare could be like this.
From BoredTonight.com - Fringe Audience Review Site.
reviewer: Sylvia Morgan
If you see nothing else at this year's Ed Fes do try to see this production. The most polished, dynamic, original performance I have experienced in years. Totally absorbing and entertaining from start to finish. I will be going back for seconds.
Praise for Strophium Production's
Wish I Had a Sylvia Plath - winner of the Edinburgh Fringe First Award 2oo7
John Farmanesh-Bocca and Elisabeth Gray
"A poignant, engrossing work of genius!"
– Venue
"A moving meditation… the show veers wildly between farce and tragedy!"
– The Guardian
"A funny, moving, highly original piece of theatre that is innovative in its presentation, well directed, and fabulously performed!" – The Stage
"Wild, tragic...This comic treatment laced with dark moments sheds fresh light on a familiar story!" - The – Scotsman
"Superbly performed and directed with absolute precision, this is a fine example of the best the Fringe has to offer!"
– Three Weeks
"An excellent script by Edward Anthony is complemented by John Farmanesh-Bocca's taut and powerful direction. A gem!"
– Daily Info
"Gray's depiction of madness is surreal and unrelenting, she is terribly touching and fragile onstage...WIHASP pitches itself just right, with the jokes making the experience all the more affecting."
– FEST
"Finely crafted homage with a hint of ridicule. An adorable spectacle!" – Fringe Report
"Laughter through the tears...A faultless production"
– The Oxford Times
"Startlingly refreshing and intriguing...!" – Theatre Guide London
"A must see!" – The Belfast Telegraph
"An international winner!" – The Monterey Herald
"A surprising - no, electrifying- evening of theatre...! The best theatre burns away the dross of its subject and leaves the gold. This is the best theatre." – David Hopes, Pulitzer Prize Finalist