A little glimmer of magic entered my life tonight and I have to share it with everyone for so many reasons-
1) This tiny theatre genuinely is a hidden gem, slap bang in the middle of Angel that you would never know was there if someone didn't let you in on the secret.
2) The Paper Cinema performance I watched was by far the most interesting and engaging piece of creative arts I've seen for years. I was in shock and awe the whole way through and it's only on for a few more days so you have to buy your tickets now. Now!
3) I live therefore I Yelp...
Cross St is a street I felt I knew pretty well, before tonight. I often walk up and down this street as I pass between my house and Angel so you would think I would know all the notable points of interest. However, tucked up a small pend about half way up the road another world exists. The Little Angel theatre is a tiny church like building which must only be able to seat about 60 people. The cloakroom come box office come bar is nothing more than a small corridor decorated from top to bottom in puppetry. Now let me make a point here- puppets aren't really my thing. In fact they creep the pants out of me so walking in to this room was a little nerve-racking. The thought that I might be about to be indoctrinated into some puppet religion crossed my might more than once. Fortunately- I was safe, no Pinocchio strings for me!
Now that you have a bit of a feel for the theatre itself, let me try to explain the Paper Cinema concept and do it justice. Any Simpson's fans out there will know the episode where Homer voices the Poochie character in Itchy and Scratchy and asks if the episode will be going out live-
'No Homer, very few cartoons go out live, it's a terrible strain on the artists wrists'
Well, imagine if that wasn't the case, imagine if animated action was being created live in front of your eyes! The Paper Cinema team use a projector, some clever light trickery, hand held drawings and marionettes to create an incredible show live infront of you. The soundtrack is minimal and instead the animation relies on the guitar/violin accompaniment of an oh so talented musician. It's dramatic, moving and well, perfect! Can you tell I loved it?! If you want to check these guys out take a look at, http://www.thepapercinema.com
Tickets were £8 and the show only lasts an hour so there really is no excuse not to enjoy it. It's on until Sunday so you only have a few days to get your dose of culture. If you do make the trip I promise you it will be worth it, I had a lovely night! read more