WRESTLING, THEATRE, AN NORSE MYTHOLOGY – AN UNLIKELY WINNING COMBINATION

By Trisha Cusack ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

When you think of storytelling mediums, wrestling is unlikely to come to mind. Particularly in a prestigious venue like Alexandra Palace Theatre. However, Mythos: Ragnorok defies expectations to deliver a very enjoyable and entertaining show for all ages.

The two hour production (with an interval) adapts classic Norse mythology to tell the tale of the creation of Asgard, a new kingdom founded in the void between the realms of fire and ice. We meet Loki the show’s narrator, fittingly played by show creator Ed Gamester, who forms an alliance with Odin (Howard Drake). The first act follows their quest to create this new world, battling opponents and creating allies in captivating displays of professional wrestling.

We are introduced to the rest of the cast of Norse gods including Thor (James Dunn), Freyja (Heidi Katrina), Baldr (Beau Charles), and Gullveig (Louise Young) during these rumbles. I was deeply impressed by the cast’s ability to not only perform these physical feats but to also deliver credible and engaging acting performances.

The wrestling matches were high impact and well crafted that built the show’s narrative in a fresh, exciting way. The choreography, if that’s the correct wrestling term, was very clever in drawing in the crowd, particularly the fight scenes that took place literally in the stalls. Crowd engagement further enhanced these moments with the characters encouraging cheers and boos just like a real wrestling match. This was a fun highlight and I could feel myself getting invested.

The second act delivers a more dramatic turn in the plotline. With Asgard now established, power has corrupted Odin and his children, Freyja, Thor, and Baldr. Loki’s children Jormungandr (Sam Gardiner), Fenrir (Fin McCarthy) and Hel (Daisy Jenkins) are introduced, causing a battle for power and status that results in a fierce betrayal by the Asgardians against Loki. With fire and ice now turned on one another, Ragnorok has come. This culminated in the ultimate battle in the wrestling ring with Odin and his children on one side and Loki and his children (plus Gullveig who is now Loki’s romantic partner as well as sister… listen, mythology is complex) on the other. Who will be the ultimate victor?

It would be easy to dismiss this as just a wrestling show. However, there is much to commend about this niche spectacle. A quality production value with interesting staging and live music provides a strong visual narrative. This is supported by a compelling narrative that is easy to follow, on par with any standalone theatre show. The script delivers plenty of comedic moments but also has the right amount of drama that achieves the desired effect with the audience. Lastly, as mentioned before, the level of skill and talent required to perform professional wrestling action while also having a decent acting ability makes the cast even more impressive.

Overall, Mythos: Ragnorok is a prime example of the value of independent theatre, breaking the mould of what it can be. It is absolutely worth giving this show a go – you may be pleasantly surprised by just how well wrestling and theatre can work together.

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Photo Credit: David Wilson Photography