"A luminous bow hovers in the darkness as if suspended in the sky while the arena-like stage is filled with smoke. A figure emerges: Katniss Everdeen, the girl from District 12 in Suzanne Collins' post-apocalyptic universe, played by Jennifer Lawrence in the film franchise. With her appearance, the 74th Hunger Games begin and no special effect is spared. Closely following the plot of Collins' first book in the young adult series, and the Lionsgate film of 2012,"
"The Super Bowl optics are all there from the off: a wardrobe of great gaudy glory (the 1960s, with twists of commedia dell'arte, the Palace of Versailles and alien-chic, designed by Moi Tran), a fast-changing set by Miriam Buether and energetic choreography from Charlotte Broom. The first half, prepping us for the gameshow, lacks tension, nonetheless. We are just hours away from being mortal enemies, Katniss says."
A large-scale stage adaptation recreates the Hunger Games arena with striking visual effects: smoke, a luminous bow, screens, cannon sounds and a gantry representing the tree. Costumes and set design lean into gaudy, Super Bowl-style spectacle with 1960s, commedia dell'arte and Versailles influences. Choreography and fast-changing scenery amplify the theatrical spectacle. The production closely follows the original plot and film while prioritizing visual wow over sustained emotional tension. Katniss's internal narration offers access to feelings but feels burdened by exposition. Key relationships, notably with Gale, receive insufficient development amid the rapid pacing and showmanship.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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