Seven Stories

Seven Stories
Presented by Kismat. Chapel off Chapel (Vic). May 9 – 12, 2012.

Seven Stories is deceptively named as it is more a magic show than an evening of story, although the storytelling element is well integrated and at times wise and elucidating, the intrigue is in the magic.

Charismatic Vyom Sharma has put a great little show together displaying, for me at least, almost perfect ‘sleight of hand’. He does tell stories and anecdotes throughout and is ably assisted by musician Steph Speirs, who underscores the whole with light lilting music from a Yamaha keyboard.   

Although the production values are generally minimal, the performance is entertaining and the magic fascinating. Sharma displays significant talent, insight, sensitivity and potential as both a storyteller and magician - that will hopefully be realized in future performances.

The whole would be more complete and absorbing in an intimate setting with atmosphere and ambiance delivered through lighting, special effects and costume.

The musical accompaniment is a little monotonous and the delivery so nice it is errs towards bland. It would be excellent to see this work shaken up a bit and attacked with more aplomb and financial support.

Still well worth catching in this incarnation or the next, particularly if magic fascinates you.

Suzanne Sandow

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