Underbelly Boulevard, London
****
Devised by David M. Lutkin
Directed by Nick Corley
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| David M. Lutken |
Returning to London for a two week residency at Soho’s Underbelly Boulevard, Woody Sez is a slick 80-minute tribute to Woody Guthrie, a man whose songs were to describe much of America’s 20th century history.
Devised and led by David M. Lutken, this Fringe favourite is a cleverly curated compilation of Guthrie’s compositions, beautifully performed. Via song and narration Lutken steers us through the singer’s life, highlighting his milestone successes alongside numerous tragedies. As we learn and listen to Guthrie’s navigation of the Great Depression, largely through the Dust Bowl of America’s Midwest, the history is compelling. Guthrie's lyrics match the writing of John Steinbeck in their harrowingly ingenious simplicity.
Lutken, a Texan, is supported by a talented trio of North Americans, with Raquel Chavez, Nyssa Grant and David Finch accompanying him on guitar, fiddle, bass, zither… the list is as endless as the troupe’s playing skills are sublime.
The Guthrie classics are well represented in a setlist that includes This Land Is Your Land, Tom Joad and The Sinking of the Reuben James.
Woody Guthrie fans will love it - not least the evening’s singalong vibe. Classy, sassy entertainment.
Runs until 19th September
Photo credit: Jake Oseland
