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Tobacco Road

Tobacco Road is, more than anything, a lot of fun to watch and a strong example of the power of devised theatre and the ensemble. Incognito Theatre, the creators of the sell-out All Quiet On The Western Front, return to the Fringe with the story of a group of young Londoners seeking to climb to the top of their city's underworld in the 1920s. It’s all very Peaky Blinders and Guy Ritchie.

Incognito’s vibrant devising and image-making is top notch.

Instantly apparent in Tobacco Road is the piece’s tone; Incognito absolutely smash the right level of fun and grit needed for the piece. The raw stylisation of the storytelling and action is wonderfully balanced and never too indulgent or overpowering, with intuitive lighting and modern music helping to achieve a Tarantino-esque vibe. Incognito’s vibrant devising and image-making is top notch as evidenced by a thrilling boxing scene. The cast is charismatic, likeable and confident - they have a lot to be confident about - and thus, the plot and characters are believable and real, providing a solid grounding for the action. There are also some more serious moments peppered into the script that transcend the piece's jovial tone, providing the story and characters with crucial weight.

The minor drawbacks are barely significant compared to the piece’s overall success. A couple of scenes lag noticeably; perhaps as the emphasis on constant action leaves the more conversational scenes feeling static and lacking in interest. A midway is possible and Incognito, being the capable and inventive company that they are, are sure to find it. Another worrying issue is that, for such a fun show, the cast didn’t consistently appear to be enjoying performing the story as much as we were watching it; meaning that some of the piece’s inherent joie de vivre failed to materialise at points. Granted, this review was taken from the final show of a long Fringe run. In addition, though the elements of the show’s stagecraft are solid in an excellent set of lighting, sound, set and costume design, a particular turning point in the narrative is let down by its lack of ‘magic’, thus taking us momentarily out of the story and robbing the play of a potentially breathtaking and innovative - albeit shocking - moment.

The road to the conclusion is finely laced with suspense while the finale itself manages to feel appropriately climactic despite the consistently high energy and excitement. The choreography here is especially astounding as the cast demonstrate masterful teamwork. The resolution is worthy of the lead-up, although we are left wanting a slightly more emotional punch. Tobacco Road is a ingenious piece of devised theatre from a fierce ensemble in Incognito as well as a fantastic example of the Young Pleasance and Pleasance Futures programmes.

Reviews by Jet Green

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Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now

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The Blurb

Following their sell-out All Quiet On The Western Front, Greenwich Partnership Award-winners Incognito return with their explosive physical style to tell the story of five resourceful young men and women attempting to carve out a place in the murky underworld of 1920s London. In the wake of the Great War, can they find the fame and wealth they crave or will their desperate need to belong lead to disastrous consequences?
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