Review: Paper Dolls at the Tricycle Theatre

Paper Dolls

Tricycle Theatre

Reviewed on Wednesday 6th March 2013 (Press Night)

"In Tel Aviv, Israel, a group of Filipino immigrants work as live-in carers for elderly Orthodox Jewish men. Six days a week they provide dedicated support to their employers. But on the seventh day they transform into a homespun, sassy musical drag act. Meet the Paper Dolls!"

Paper Dolls is like nothing I have ever seen before. Philip Himberg's show, which is adapted from a documentary film, is an outrageous yet touching true story. It is unusual to see such a feel good, uplifting piece of theatre which also contains so many scenes of warmth and heartbreak. I'm struggling to sit and write a review because I am still completely speechless.

During the Paper Dolls' drag performances I felt like I was was sitting in a huge theatre. While the cast's stage presence was impressive, the drag performances were not always consistent and became slightly cringey on a few occasions. The costume designs are tremendous and could not have been any bigger, brighter or bolder.

The storyline between Sally (one of the Paper Dolls) and Chaim (an elderly Orthodox Jewish man who Sally cares for during the day) was beautifully portrayed by Francis Jue and Harry Dickman. I did not expect to become so emotionally attached to both characters, the scenes they shared were very heart-warming and sincere.

The true story of the Paper Dolls is fascinating. With endless twists and turns the show is unpredictable and takes you on quite a journey. I was not impressed with the finale as it all became slightly silly which was a shame.

Paper Dolls had an enormous impact on me as it is completely unique. I would highly recommend this outrageously brilliant show if you are looking to see something completely different. Go open minded and you may be pleasantly surprised...

Please visit www.tricycle.co.uk for more information and to book tickets.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

andrew@westendframe.com

Please click here to read our recent interview with Ron Domingo who plays Chiqui in the production. 

Photo Credit: Tristram Kenton

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