REVIEW: EXPÖSED, by Baby Lamb Productions at Lion and Unicorn Theatre 17 – 21 February 2025
‘hilarious, punchy comedy, fuelled by a political stance on the fashion industry’ ★★★★ ½
Currently touring and already acclaimed, ‘EXPÖSED’, by emerging theatre company Baby Lamb Productions is a deliciously hilarious, punchy comedy, fuelled by a political stance on the fashion industry. This fast paced and glamorous production held together by a dynamic ensemble demonstrates terrific creativity and gives us an exquisitely funny and very promising theatre piece.
The show opens with an interactive runway of the latest work of established German stylist ‘The Emperor’ (played by Northern Irish actor Jacob Baird), which ends in a flop. Looking to save his tainted reputation, his right-hand Yannick (excellently played by Ashok Gupta) prompts him to search for a new concept for his upcoming collection. Jacob Baird carries the show with brilliance. His ridiculous & absurd character, a greedy bully absolutely incapable of running his business with moderation or common sense, echoing some of our actual political figures. The clear and simple message on the fast fashion industry is carried through the character of Maureen (played by Nisha Emich), who tries to fight for a more sustainable, and body positivity oriented approach for this new project. But The Emperor sets his mind on something different – a mysterious material designed by a chaotic and exhilarating fake duo of French artists (Hannah McLeod & Kiera Murray), that can only be seen by ‘cool’ people. Followed by his minions and embarking on an eventful adventure, including a nonsensical chess game or a contemporary dance masterpiece by Nick Alexander, The Emperor is set for an even bigger fiasco…
While some of the physical comedy or storylines (love triangle) could be slightly tighter or re-written for more effective comical effect, the obvious talent of those multiskilled performers makes the entire room, which was full on that night, break into laughter repeatedly throughout the show.
Special mention to Hannah McLeod, also director on this production, for her impressive multi-roling, hilarious French accent and flawless whale and jungle sounds. I cried laughing.
Baby Lamb Productions have so much energy and wit to offer, and I’m more than excited to see how they grow in the future.
EXPÖSED
By Baby Lamb Productions
Directed by Hannah Mcleod
Cast:
Jacob Baird – Ze Emperor
Ashok Gupta – Yanik / Michael M Michaels
Hannah Mcleod – Alexa / Bree
Kiera Murray – Edna / Oche
Nick Alexander – Johan
Nisha Emich – Maureen/Areola
Photo credit: Lidia Crisafulli
INSTAGRAM: @babylambproductions
WEBSITE: http://babylambproductions.com/
