GRIMM

GRIMM plays at the Civic Theatre on 16 and 17 September, brought to Newcastle by Shake & Stir Theatre Co. It's a reimagining of the original Brothers Grimm fairytales, the ones that started out far darker than the versions most of us grew up with. The production is set inside an abandoned drinking house deep in the dark forest, and it brings back familiar characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood, though they're presented with haunting twists rather than the usual happy endings. Shake & Stir describe it as a mix of dark intensity and irreverent glee.

If the name doesn't ring a bell, the company is well-known for its stage adaptations of classics: The Great Gatsby, Frankenstein, Jane Eyre, The Mousetrap, and A Christmas Carol are all part of their track record. This one is adapted by Nelle Lee and directed by Daniel Evans. The cast includes Aljin Abella, Helen Cassidy, Melissa Kahraman, and Henry Rollo, with costumes by Australian fashion icon Paul McCann. Guy Webster handles the music and sound, which will be a big part of the atmosphere given the forest setting.

There are a few things to keep in mind before you book. The show is recommended for ages 14+ and contains adult themes, sexual references, simulated violence and gore, and infrequent coarse language. It also depicts alcohol consumption. On the technical side, expect smoke effects, strobe lighting, and loud sound effects and music throughout. If any of that is a dealbreaker, it's worth knowing before you head in. Otherwise, it's two nights at the Civic Theatre on 16 and 17 September.