Photography; Projection; Multimedia
Torch, written by Chris Dickins, presented by Alchemy Theatre, explores the lives and music of seven famous ‘torch singers’ from the 1920’s to the 1950’s. These seven stars are Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Edith Piaf, Lena Horne, Marlene Dietrich and Ruth Etting.
Torch singers were renowned for their sensual, sultry, jazz-blues interpretations of renowned songs and were often seen performing by a simple candlelight.
The songs were often of love; love lost, remembered, broken or pleading. In between the songs Torch offers revealing insights into the lives of the singers – which were often tinged by tragedy and heart break.
For all that Torch was a remarkably upbeat production reveling in quick changes of mood and character. The minimal set was supported by huge visuals, lighting changes and images sourced from history. Erin McCuskey from Yum Studio provided projection, technical advice and principle photography.
