Out There
Union Theatre
Reviewed on Friday 23rd September 2016 by Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed on Friday 23rd September 2016 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
When I was younger I was a self-confessed Busted fangirl. I remember hearing the news of their breakup on the radio absolutely, heartbroken that I wouldn't have a new song and video to obsess over anymore so when I heard about ex Busted frontman James Bourne's new production of Out There I was intrigued to say the least! James has partnered with Elliot Davis to create this wholesome story about space, family and love.
Bourne describes Out There as a "melancholy tale with a pop and country-tinged soundtrack" which is really a perfect description. The show opens with the young, hopeful and optimistic Newman Carter as he says a last goodbye to his wife and son before tragedy strikes and he goes missing. Fast forward 40 years as Newman's troublesome grandson is running away to escape his father and the law. Logan finds himself in Hope, Texas where he meets a man who unbeknownst to him is his grandfather who now goes by the name Ned. While the townsfolk led by the evil sheriff are seeking regeneration and pushing Ned to sell his land we see secrets revealed and romance blossom.
The show is packed with sentimentality and heart-warming moments about mending broken relationships and never giving up on your dreams, but theres something missing which doesn't give it the ability to set the West End scene alight. There is good intention in spades and the fantastic cast give brilliant performances which keep you truly invested in the show. The music and lyrics are fluffy and somewhat repetitive but do make for some standout moments; especially the father, son and grandson trio of Act 2: What Matters Most which was truly a showcase of the clarity and power of the male voice.
The background of rocket science is a winning factor for this show, giving it a different depth and uniqueness not seen in other current shows. The grandfather pursues his dream of building his own space rocket and reclaiming the pride he lost when he was replaced in the Apollo mission. This adds a new level of reality which somehow seems to work.
Luke Street as the rebellious son, Dave Willetts as his reclusive grandfather and Imelda Warren-Green as the feministic love interest give stand-out performances and the whole company are exuberant and well cast. Michael Burgen directs a wonderful production and cast where each member is genuinely talented and their voices and skills are really shown off in the intimate Union Theatre.
Personally there was more dramatic punch needed to make this a truly lasting show, but the heart, talent and all round lovely performances made it an enjoyable night out and left me smiling which is always what you want from a show!
Out There is running at the Union Theatre until October 8th, tickets can be purchased on www.uniontheatre.biz
