Rama Nicholas’ spaghetti western musical, Death Rides A Horse, has returned for an enchanting second season. Nicholas establishes herself as a wonderfully charismatic and versatile actress from the outset, rising to the demands of her one-woman show with ease. Switching between 15 distinct characters would normally seem a tall order for any performer, yet Nicholas executes each transition seamlessly. Death Rides A Horse is energised by an ensemble of colorful characters, their intricacies and accents tackled with unique finesse. Fugitive cowgirl Katarina and her comical horse companion serve as the show’s main protagonists – the latter, in particular, accounting for many of the show’s best laughs. Nicholas also introduces a vengeful Spaniard, an evil Sheriff and a Noel-Fielding-inspired Death into the mix. Their personalities and quirks linger long after the show itself, which is a credit to Nicholas’ characterisation. Her enjoyment in bringing each figure to life is near-palpable, enriching the experience of the show.
The musical interludes of Death Rides A Horse are hilarious, Whores Have Dreams – pitched as an ‘unrequited dream song’ – emerging a surprisingly infectious highlight. Nicholas’ numbers are never intrusive or overdone, nor do they distract from the point – rather, each song serves the imaginative narrative with purpose.
An excess of charm defines Death Rides A Horse, a slick, tickling production. Throughout the most recent comedy festival season, murmurs began to ripple, suggesting this was a show not to be missed. Put simply, Death Rides A Horse lives up to the hype. Highly recommended.
BY NICK MASON
