Mask, set and puppets emulate Marc Chagall's painting style as we follow the journey through his life and times in Trestle's latest production.
Elliot Levey as Chagall breathes life into the role and with undying stamina delivers a constant monologue in this lengthy piece. He interacts with the mime and mask work of other performers, who play parents, best friend, sweetheart... The relaying of this text overshadows the impact of the mask and puppetry, making it seem at times clumsy, especially when the silent mask characters are addressed theoretically by Chagall. Perhaps these are moments where the representation of the character could fall into step with the language of those in masks rather than relentlessly and verbally telling the story? Nonetheless the piece is made enchanting by its flip-top roof-top set and complementary live Klezmer soundtrack, as well as the renowned high-quality of Trestle's mask and puppetry design and presentation.