By Megha Alam and Tilly Mason
Laughter, confusion, and shock are just a few of the emotions that the LSESU’s Drama Society’s thoughtful and humorous production of Ring Round The Moon took me through. The play, directed by Lara Arencibia Pender and Hannah Inyoung-Oh, depicts the story of poor dancer Isabelle, who is invited to a ball by the aristocratic and heartless Hugo only to find herself trapped in a world of opulence and luxury, with its dark side of clandestine schemes and affairs.
The story plunges right into chaos and scheming, setting out love triangles and affairs between multiple characters that left me more lost and confused than amused at the start. However, as the play goes on, the plot begins to materialise to the audience and one is able to sit back and enjoy the witty dialogue and the calculated chaos that begins to ensue. It’s easy to feel empathy for Isabelle, who is just as overwhelmed as I imagine the audience was at the beginning.
The acting from all 11 cast members was exceptional, but particularly impressive was Jo Carriat’s ability to take the role of both of the polar opposite twins, Hugo and Frederic. Hannah Brown’s portrayal of Isabelle’s overbearing and self-centred mother never failed to make the audience burst into laughter at all the right moments, working as comic relief from witnessing the distress of the exploited Isabelle played by Madeline Newson. Lola Fayokun effortlessly embodied the domineering character of Madame Desmortes, who expertly ties the pieces of the tumultuous night together.
The production of Ring Round the Moon is a triumph. The team’s impeccable work with sound and lighting creates a truly immersive and luxurious atmosphere. The clever costume choices did not go unnoticed as the pale blue dress for sweet and shy Isabelle, and the vibrant red for the jealous and spoilt daddy’s girl Diana Messerschmann, complemented the incredible acting. LSESU Drama Society has produced a delicious, witty satire on the absurdities of class and wealth disparity.
Hey, I’m Megha and I study Politics and History. I predominantly like to write about literature but I also love film and fashion. If you ever want to chat to me about anything or give me any book recommendations you can find me on instagram (@megha.vii) or email me at m.a.alam1@lse.ac.uk.
hello! I’m Tilly, a third year geography student. I am mostly interested in (/ obsessed with) music, films and art – my faves include big black, andrei tarkovsky and leonora carrington! If you would like to chat about an article, have any recommendations, or literally anything at all, feel free to find me on instagram (@craggyland), twitter (@tillymasonn), or I’ll probably be at whatever album society event is on!
