REVIEW: DA VINCI’S LAUNDRY at Riverside Studios 6-25 October 2025
‘Clever and witty, a satirical look at shady dealings in the sale of expensive paintings.’ ★★★★
Going to see Da Vinci’s Laundry is a delight for your eyes. As soon as you walk into the theatre, you can see the detailed and precious work on the stage which is beautifully lit and designed. The design is just perfect, and it recreates the spirit of the play. Amazing work from the set designer (Eleanour Wintour) which makes you interested and excited to see the show before it begins. The lighting and simplified use of props is really effective. It all together captures your attention and creates a beautiful atmosphere.
The piece is a satirical look at corrupt shady dealings in the sale of expensive paintings in the high-end part of the art world. It tells of people who use their power and influence to achieve what they want, which is money and more power. The art becomes an object; it loses its meaning and becomes a value item owned by the richest and most ambitious. This view makes you appreciate art in the most profound way and go back to its roots when making art was a passion in itself, and making money wasn’t the main incentive.
The script is sharp and witty, very nicely delivered by the actors. Each character in the play is unique, and their roles take a comical look and reflects stereotypes/perceptions people may have about others from particular countries. The performances are outstanding, believable and the characters are well constructed. Great work from the actors, writer and director.
The body language and gestures are very effective, creating a comic effect at the right moments and making the audience laugh out loud. There were moments of tension and great drama, but the jokes and humour give the audience a moment to breath and release from some of the serious issues of the play.
A great night out where you can see wonderful performances, as well as the lovely scenery and lighting. Those are the main strengths of the play. Each actor composes a perfect character which can be funny and dramatic at the same time.
Good script which was written by the main actor, Keelan Kember, and good direction too from Merie Wheldon. A play that must be seen.
DA VINCI’S LAUNDRY
Written by Keelan Kember
Director Merle Wheldon
Set designer Eleanour Wintour
Producer Kit Bromovsky
Stage manager Tessa Alderton
Riverside Studios, 101 Queen Caroline St, London W6 9BN
6-25 October
Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Thurs & Sat matinees 2:30pm
BOX OFFICE https://riversidestudios.co.uk/see-and-do/da-vincis-laundry-194901/
Cast
Millie Arsema Thomas Tony Steve Zissis Boris Velibor Topic
Christopher Keelan Kember Prince Fayez Bakhsh
Photography: Teddy Cavendish
Reviewer Laura Mobilia is an Argentinian- Italian theatre maker, actor and writer based in London. She holds a master’s degree in Performing Arts from the National University of the Arts in Buenos Aires and has trained extensively in theatre and musical theatre.
