I am a Viking 2005

John Hannam – The Stage
This is most definitely a show with a difference. You leave the theatre with several questions to ask yourself, including, ‘what was that all about’? Its fast, it’s zany, manic and full of improvisation, with an abundance of comedy.

The success of I Am a Viking depends on the response of the audience. The Fareham crowd was a little slow in taking off. The fantastic cast of Mark Conway, Emma Lloyd and Frank Wurzinger created openings that were not always spotted. Once the rapport was finally established both ways, the show really took off with some great innovations from the players. This play must be different every single night and the three must revel in the opportunities created by the responses from the audience, surprising each other with their improvisations. Their work rate is unbelievable and the whole show has incredible pace. The wide age gap amongst the audience is another real bonus.

The basic story, from the days of Viking theatre, is on the theme of how to become a hero and fight a dragon. The journey is superbly executed with the aid of a great set, versatile props, masterful puppetry, superb lighting and a very energetic and accomplished trio of actors who play many parts and even share characters, which ads to the mayhem. There are one or two delightfully touching moments, in more ways than one. The original music by Simon Preston adds much to this fascinating production.

Ranjit Khutan – Reviewsgate.com
Stunning – full of vigour and passion
I AM A VIKING is a collision of clowning, theatre, slapstick, and bizarre puppetry where the cast create a world in which this epic journey is enacted. Original Music by Simon Preston compliments the performance well (the film ‘Lord of the Rings’ comes to mind) and encourages the audience to slip into this story full of suspense and side bursting laughter. Each member of the cast seamlessly exchange roles with each other – passing the lead character role between them without confusion. Although in the middle of a national tour the cast remains full of energy, delivering their roles with passion and conviction.
I AM A VIKING is stunning – a brilliant performance from beginning to end. Of particular noteworthiness is the dwarf scene, the boat journey/the mountain climb and the dragon scene.