In the words of its creator Ed Gamester, Mythos: Ragnarok is “the only theatre show on planet earth to be performed entirely by professional wrestlers.”
The Greek Mythology-inspired theatrical experience began its tour of the UK last night in the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton.
The play follows Odin and Loki (Gamester) as they attempt to unite and take over a new land between realms, with the help of Greek God Thor and other Norse characters.
The music stands out from the moment you enter the theatre, with loud orchestral drums building suspense in the room before Loki steps out to address the audience with a dramatic monologue. This dark, theatrical music is used throughout and works well to emphasise the key moments of the play.
The characters build a strong relationship with the audience, weaving in and out of addressing the crowd, and it was clear from the beginning that the audience were perfectly willing to talk right back. The occasional cheer of agreement or booing of a bad character created a fun environment, the pantomime-like elements balancing carefully with the high stakes moments in the story.
This brings me to the crux of what makes this play so brilliant; the wrestling. You couldn’t miss the gasp of the crowd as the first blow was landed five minutes in. You can’t help but move forward in your seat as a character is thrown to the floor in what looks to be an extremely painful manor.
The fighting never got old, even in the final scenes the shocked gasps and whispers of the crowd never ceased. A standout moment came when Loki and his Norse sister Freyja brought their fight into the crowd. Gamester’s Loki walks through seats and even hides under an audience members jacket, before the two viciously wrestle at the back of the room. The close-up view of the fight made it all the more shocking, and also allowed for audience members at the back to gain a front row view of the mayhem.
One doesn’t notice the lack of props used on stage, the striking lighting, engaging dialogue and professional wrestling giving the viewer more than enough to focus on. The combination of slapstick comedy and clever wit meant there was something for everyone – which was reflected by the vast range of ages in the audience.
It is clear why the show is one of Edinburgh Fringe Festivals top selling shows, and how excited this cast are to take this show on the road. The speech by Gamester at the final curtain was an emotional one – a thanks to the audience for supporting an entirely self-funded show, and a plea to support local wrestling and theatre in the area. Overall, the play was a triumphant display of original theatre that leaves you feeling like you’ve just witness something truly special.
