Malasombra is the kind of production that young adults love. It is a combination of horror, fairytale, animation, shadow puppetry and storytelling that will keep youngsters gripped and opened mouthed in amazement. There is however enough imagination and delight that will also please adult audiences.

Malasombra is described as “an emotionally dark fairytale for adults and heavy metal kids”. The striking visuals evoke German Expressionism and this is underlined through the villain of Malasombra, who appears like a menacing Noseferatu, reminiscent of Count Orlok in the 1922 silent movie. The heavy metal soundtrack is definitely fitting and adds to the horror and torment as we witness a fairy like character running from the claw like grasp of the imposing villain.

It is presented as physical theatre and works best when we see the performers onstage interacting with the large projected visuals. The action moves at a fast pace and the shadow puppetry emphasises the fairytale nature of the performance. If you are looking for a fringe show for ‘Heavy Metal Kids’ then Malasombra is the perfect choice.