MICF Review: Why you HAVE to see Trainspotting Live (Performances in Melbourne until April 13)

This will be the best night out at the theatre you will ever experience. But be warned; no one is safe. If you’re not into audience participation then this show probably isn’t for you but I’m telling you now if you miss this show you will be sorry.

Fresh from sold-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2015 and 2016, In Your Face Theatre’s Scottish cast has brought Trainspotting Live down under and all I can say is WOW! This 75-minute adaptation of the famous novel and film is truly a remarkable piece of work where nothing is taboo and everything is just in your face. Pun intended!

From the moment you enter fortyfivedownstairs, it’s a rave den. With my glow stick in hand I raved my way through to the main theatre space where the cast were in full rave mode. God knows how long they had been there but they were sweaty and giving it 100% 90s rave mania. I was truly in awe and just wanted to get up and rave with them to be honest.

Now, I really don’t want to give too much away about this show, and I’ve been saying the same thing to my friends. Whether you’ve seen the film or not is irrelevant because of the issues and subject matter that this show covers are gripping, disturbing and scarily relevant in today’s society. However, I would definitely put an R18+ rating on this show, as it is not for the faint of heart or those who cannot take the experience for what it is.

Just some things to be aware of:

1. Every second word is either f**k or c**t
2. There is audience participation
3. There is a lot of poo
4. There is nudity! Yes you will see boobs and penises
5. There is a lot of (simulated) drug use
6. Some of the physical theatre elements in this show are extremely graphic
7. DON’T SIT NEAR THE TOILET!!!!!!!!!

With all of this in mind though I can assure you it will be unlike anything you’ve seen or experienced before. What I wonder most about is how this cast of seven come down from such a high energy show? I have a lot of respect for these actors because their integrity to the subject matter and their trust in each other to treat this work with respect is incredible.

A unique night out that will have you either raving or covered in poo. You have been warned.

Trainspotting Live is playing in Melbourne as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 13. Tickets are available right now.

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