TRASH!

A high-octane, percussive masterclass that favors joyful noise over deep messaging.

Turning a gas cylinder into a musical instrument takes real imagination. At the Gulbenkian Theatre, the Spanish theatre company Yllana, together with Toompak, delivers a 90-minute show that proves music can be made from almost anything. Using everyday objects and recycled materials, they create a lively performance full of rhythm, comedy, and energy.

Dressed in brown work overalls and orange hard hats, the four performers, Gorka González, Fran Mark, Bruno Alves, and Harold Gazeau combine drumming, movement, and physical comedy to keep the audience entertained from beginning to end.

The musical performances are impressive. One of the highlights is a clever version of Beethoven played on gas cylinders with perfect timing. Another memorable scene is an umbrella routine inspired by Singin' in the Rain, adding a touch of classic musical theatre. The performers also create music using basketballs, toolboxes, buckets, supermarket trolleys, and many other everyday objects, turning rubbish into an exciting orchestra.

The show is presented with a recycling theme, showing how discarded objects can be given a new purpose. While the environmental message is clear through the set and the instruments, it stays in the background. The main focus is on entertainment, rhythm, and comedy rather than delivering a strong message about climate change or consumer habits.

The performance is carefully choreographed, but it feels fresh and spontaneous. The performers' playful expressions, comic timing, and made-up language create plenty of laughs for both children and adults.

If you are expecting a detailed story, TRASH! may not be the show for you. But if you enjoy live music, physical theatre, and creative performances, it is a joyful and energetic experience. Watching four talented performers transform everyday rubbish into a lively orchestra is both entertaining and inspiring. TRASH! reminds us that music can be found almost anywhere you just need a little imagination.

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Venue: Gulbenkian Theatre, Canterbury, UK

Production: Yllana & Toompak

Artistic Director: David Ottone, Jony Elías, Gorka González

Music: Toompak

Cast: Gorka González, Fran Mark, Bruno Alves, Harold Gazeau