The Southbank Centre welcomes this new theatrical adventure mixing music, time travel, illusion, and dystopian universes to create a unique dance-driven experience. Guillermo Nazara chats with the people behind the magic, to learn all the facts about how this offbeat fantasy has been turned into reality on the stage.
How did the idea for this show come about?
The idea emerged from an intriguing real-life event that sparked our imaginations. We saw an opportunity to explore the intersection of reality and fantasy, taking a historical moment and reinterpreting it through our signature blend of animation, live performance, and music.
“A magical, mischievous world… inspired by a true story.” What are the true facts behind this whimsical journey?
Come and see the show and find out!
What has the show’s development process been like?
The development process has been collaborative and iterative. We began with research and initial sketches, followed by workshops where animation, music, and live performance were developed in tandem. Each element—whether it was a visual concept or a piece of dialogue—was refined through trial and error, with the team constantly sharing ideas and feedback. The process is about finding balance, making sure the visuals, music, and narrative all serve the story without overwhelming one another.
Realism combined with science-fiction and dystopia. What are the reasons behind these stylistic choices?
We chose this mix because it reflects the complexity of the story and the themes we wanted to explore. The realism grounds the audience, giving them something familiar to latch onto, while the science-fiction and dystopian elements push boundaries, encouraging them to think beyond the everyday.
Have you encountered any creative challenges?
Yes, plenty! A big challenge has been ensuring that the technical elements—like synchronising live performance with animations—don’t overshadow the emotional and narrative core of the show. Another has been maintaining cohesion between the surreal and grounded aspects of the story. Balancing these elements takes time and experimentation, but overcoming those hurdles often leads to some of the most rewarding moments of creativity.
What, would you say, is the essence that defines this show?
The essence of the show lies in its ability to blend multiple art forms to tell a story that feels both unique and universally resonant. It’s about exploring the tension between reality and fantasy, chaos and order, while engaging the audience’s imagination. At its core, the show is a reflection on childhood, human ingenuity, and the ways we make sense of an unpredictable world.
Are you trying to convey any message through this montage?
While we don’t set out to deliver a specific message, the themes of the show naturally invite reflection, but our aim is to leave the interpretation open. We want the audience to find their own connections and meaning in what they see.
Why come see 1927: Please Right Back?
Because it’s a unique blend of storytelling, animation, and music! The show invites you into a world that’s visually striking, emotionally engaging, and full of surprises. It’s a chance to experience something different—an inventive approach to performance that combines humour, depth, and a bit of magic.
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Paul Barritt’s headshot credit to Steve Barritt. Suzanne Andrade’s headshot credit to yellowbelly.
1927: Please Right Back will play at London’s Southbank Centre from 21 December to 5 January. Tickets are available on the following link.