Vamos Theatre and modern mask theatre was new to me. I had seen the Greek classic, The Oresteia at the National Theatre in 1981 with a large chorus of masked actors so I knew it has a long deep heritage. I was therefore intrigued to catch this latest production, Dead Good on a regional tour of small venues and the promotional video of the four performers in their slightly oversized masks certainly creates a sense of the lively amusing cartoonish show. However, the topics they currently choose to explore using the technique are far from this image. Their previous show, A Brave Face dealt with Post Traumatic Stress after the Afghanistan war and this latest show is about learning to enjoy your “end of life” experience after a terminal diagnosis from medical consultants. If it was a TV show it would come with a pre-show warning and post-show reference to a helpline for anyone affected by the issues it raises.
It is clear that the development of these shows is based on some strong research and this programme is dedicated to Dave, Pete and Nick, palliative care patients who helped in the research but have now all sadly passed on. That research shows in the various internal scenes set in the Hospice and Medical rooms; for example, when one character has a catheter fitted or in the general care given by staff in Hospices. For anyone who has experienced a loved one or close friend in these emotional and challenging circumstances the story will resonate powerfully and bring back strong memories. The central message of the show about friendship in these circumstances and living the remaining life to the full are powerful messages to share as we all face these challenges in our lives.
