I was warned that Vampire Hospital Waiting Room was wonderful and weird but that you had to embrace it - I would encourage any potential audience member to apply this mantra to their viewing. Situated in the Bedlam theatre, this packed out free show has a hilariously funny plotline and execution to match.
The show was born when the cast and crew found a few spare doctor gowns and vampire cloaks and made them their own. With the realisation of the potential of these props, came the story of Dr Bloom (Joe McArdle). The good doctor is convinced that vampires exist and he decides he wants to be one. When Arty Baldwin (Craig Methven) comes into the hospital after a terrible car crash, Bloom feels sure that he is the vampire lord. Instead of operating or helping his other patients, Bloom tries a series of different things to awake his undead Lord, include burying him alive.
Laced with original and wonderfully catchy songs, such as ‘Love is a Car Crash’ and ‘Let’s Put the Fun in Funeral’ the show is a treat. Every few seconds you are doubled over with laughter, or grinning in adoration at the beautiful vocals of the talented cast.
All of the singing was great and the pianist was exceptionally talented. The score seemed extremely difficult, but was pulled off with ease, especially in the finale, which amalgamated all of the songs into one with about 17 different harmonies.
There are only a few small quibbles. Although the show was a lot of fun and showcased talents that made the audience green with envy, at times it felt as if it was not as polished as it could have been. The dancing in the original number was slightly out of sync, which seemed sloppy and there was some corpsing. It was a shame that at times Mrs. Baldwin didn’t project herself as much as she could have done, as occasionally her words were lost.
I would have gone to see this show only to see Doctor Bloom; his character was thoroughly explored and although drenched in humor, he was completely believable. However, if you go (and I urge you to see this), there are even more treats in store for you. It is back at Bedlam next Sunday, but until then it’s at City Café at 14:15.
