There seems to be a recent surge in high-calibre micro-ensemble and one-person plays. Fishbowl at Sadler’s Wells more than meets expectations, inviting the audience to intimately observe everyday chaos unfold on stage between three eccentric, kooky neighbors.
Fishbowl (or Bigre in French) is a strange and delightful blend of physical theatre, slapstick, and French absurdism. This hour-and-a-half silent comedy delivers exceptional entertainment value.
Created by Compagnie Le Fils du Grand Réseau and directed, written, and performed by Pierre Guillois alongside Agathe L’Huillier and Olivier Martin-Salvan, the show unfolds through a series of sketches about three neighbours living in top-floor bedsits, while simultaneously observing the development of an unlikely friendship between these polar-opposite characters. Although largely wordless, the occasional muttered “merde” and bursts of gibberish karaoke add to the charm It’s perfectly suited to the Sadler’s Wells Peacock Theatre.
The physical performance style is highly specific and meticulously detailed, and the characterisation so precise that it’s easy to forget the company consists of only three performers, (not to mention real humans). They seem less like actors and more like fully formed caricatures brought to life - a testament to their skill. The performers commit wholeheartedly, and this fearless, delightfully silly style consistently pays off. Comedic highlights include exaggerated reactions to everyday mishaps,- miscolouring the pet fish, attempting to birdwatch out the window, hosting dinner parties, or airing out dusty rugs, amongst many others. The audience is left wondering, “How on earth did that thing even end up over there?”
There’s also a generous dose of toilet humour, both literal and figurative, as much of the comedy comes from witnessing the characters’ most intimate, unfiltered moments. Laura Léonard’s set design reinforces each character’s personality. At first glance, the space appears unfinished or haphazard, as if the crew ran out of time, but the chaos is carefully curated and deeply intentional. The three apartments reflect distinct aesthetics - one rosy and lively, belonging to an enthusiastic DIY multi-tasker (a blonde, feminine woman); one sleek and matrix-esque, housing a neat freak longing for company (a big, man); and one belonging to a chronic hoarder, best described as chaos in human form (a thin, very tall man).
Despite the overlapping action and shifting focus, the lighting design by Marie-Hélène Pinon and David Carreiras ensures the story remains clear and easy to follow.
From delightfully choreographed dance numbers to underwear flying across the stage, Fishbowl offers a bit of everything. It occasionally borders on hectic, yet somehow maintains a satisfying balance. The audience are in stitches throughout the evening. This is situational comedy at its best - accessible, inventive, and well worth a watch.
Review: Levi R. Photo: Fabienne Rappeneau