Tuesday 22 August 2023
Death Note the Musical in Concert at the London Palladium Review: An Ambitious and Engaging Evening
a testament to the creative team's dedication to translating the essence of Death Note to the stage"
Death Note the Musical (Concert)
London Palladium
★★★★
In its first ever English language performance Death Note the Musical in Concert provides an engaging experience, that beautifully combines a concert style show with the allure of a full-fledged production, including captivating staging, meticulously designed costumes, and expertly executed choreography. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Death Note franchise, which originated as a manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, this musical adaptation pays homage to the rich history and context of the source material.
The exceptional cast, which include remarkable talents such as Frances Mayli McCann as Misa Amane, Dean John Wilson as L, Aimie Atkinson as Rem and Adam Pascal as Ryuk, deliver performances that breathe life into the characters. Their portrayal of the characters showcasing both their impressive vocal prowess and their deep understanding of the emotional complexities within the story which questions morality, justice and power.
While the storyline can be a bit challenging to follow, particularly for those not acquainted with the original Manga, the production's sleek execution manages to pack in a lot without feeling overwhelming. The adaptation skilfully navigates the intricate plot points, a testament to the creative team's dedication to translating the essence of Death Note to the stage.
The translation of various elements from the manga to the stage is nothing short of impressive in this truly ambitious concert debut. The show's director, Nick Winston, and the rest of the creative team, including choreographer Alexzandra Sarmiento and costume designer Will Skeet, deserve commendation for their remarkable work in seamlessly integrating these elements into the live performance. The audience's palpable elation is a testament to the success of this collaborative creative endeavour.
The pre and post-show buzz, along with the audience's enthusiastic reactions, clearly indicate that Death Note the Musical has found its niche. Wonderfully, it manages to attract those who might not typically be drawn to musicals, thanks to its connection to the established Death Note franchise and the efforts of the cast and creatives. This broad appeal speaks volumes about the production's ability to engage and captivate diverse audiences.
Admittedly, the sound balance did exhibit some issues on opening night, which can be expected with such an ambitious score. While it occasionally detracted from the overall experience, it's understandable for a complex production. Once the sound balance is finely tuned, there's no doubt that this show will achieve the impactful resonance it aims for.
Death Note the Musical in Concert at the London Palladium showcases the successful fusion of storytelling, outstanding performances, and production design. By highlighting the talents of the cast, and thanks to the creative vision, the musical celebrates the legacy of the Death Note franchise while crafting a unique and captivating theatrical experience. The show's potential to become an unforgettable sensation is evident, and with further refinements, it's poised to leave a lasting mark on the world of musical theatre and is a must see for fans of the source manga.
Reviewed on Monday 21st August 2023 by Olivia Mitchell
Photo Credit: Mark Senior
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Friday 28 July 2023
The Choir of Man at the Arts Theatre Review: A Musical Celebration of Humanity
a true testament to the power of music and its ability to bring people together"
The Choir of Man
Arts Theatre
★★★★
I recently had the pleasure of making a return visit to see The Choir of Man at the Arts theatre, a show which celebrates humanity, pubs and music in a truly joyous way.
Although the onstage beer wasn't working at this particular performance, the setup of the Arts for this show is so well done. The audience are truly made to feel like they've entered a community hub and the pre-show interactions perfectly pave the way for the impressive show that's to follow.
The show's concept is simple, it portrays a group of men coming together in a pub setting, sharing their stories and bonding through music. The songs are a bit random and there's not much of a through line but the seamless blend of humour, heartfelt moments, and raw emotions make this a truly memorable show, perfect for a lighthearted, fun night out.
This really is a show about friendship and the cast's camaraderie is evident throughout, with little interactions throughout coming across as truly genuine. There's also a really special connection created with the audience. The interactions with spectators, make you feel like you're part of the lively gathering, further enhancing the immersive experience.
The set and lighting design (Richard Dinnen) perfectly complement the show's no frills ambiance, transporting us to the cozy pub atmosphere where the magic unfolds. It's simple yet effective, allowing the spotlight to remain on the performers and their exceptional talents. The whole show is a vocal treat, with handfuls of glorious harmonies as well as some great dance and movement moments.
The Choir of Man is a true testament to the power of music and its ability to bring people together. It not only showcases the incredible vocal abilities of the cast but also celebrates the sense of community and brotherhood, leaving the audience with a heartwarming feeling. It's not the most cohesive or polished show, and it probably won't change your life but the overall joyous experience is exactly what we all need right now.
This show is the perfect embodiment of live theatre. It's a really unique show that has rightfully carved out a space in the West End and deserves to be seen and celebrated. If you love music and want an hour and a half of feel-good-fun then this is the show for you!
Reviewed on Wednesday 26th July 2023 by Olivia Mitchell
Photo Credit: The Other Richard
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday 25 July 2023
Ride at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant Review: A Triumph of Story Telling
While it may not boast the grandeur of a West End spectacle, its simplicity and sincerity are what set it apart"
Ride
Southwark Playhouse Elephant
★★★★
Embarking on a wondrous return, the dynamic musical Ride, crafted by Freya Catrin Smith and Jack Williams, is back to captivate audiences with an enchanting odyssey like no other. Having previously seen this show as part of the Vault Festival in 2020, it's amazing to see how it has developed and become even more of a theatrical gem.
This thrilling new production delves into the extraordinary escapades of Annie Londonderry, an indomitable spirit who shattered barriers in 1895 by becoming the first woman to cycle around the globe. Fearlessly challenging societal norms and religious expectations, Annie spins a captivating tale that dances on the edge of truth and fiction, skillfully molding narratives to serve her greater cause. She fearlessly embraces her convictions, even if it means bending the boundaries of morality. Wrapped around Annie's finger from the moment the metaphorical curtain is raised, we are spellbound by her storytelling prowess.
This British masterpiece takes us on an emotional rollercoaster ride, filled with hearty laughter and unflinchingly honest revelations about life and society, leaving a profound impact. With every twist and turn, the characters' raw emotions and vulnerabilities are beautifully portrayed, drawing us into their world and ensnaring our hearts until the closing moments.
The brilliance of Ride shines through the remarkable performances of its two-person cast: Liv Andrusier as Annie and Katy Ellis as Martha. Their chemistry is palpable, and they breathe life into their characters with heartfelt authenticity. Liv's portrayal of Annie is a multi-dimensional masterpiece, blending determination and defiance as she navigates a male-dominated world, striving to be heard. Her captivating Bostonian drawl lures us in, and her vocal prowess keeps us enchanted as she flawlessly delivers the demanding score, showcasing a masterclass in acting through song.
Under the direction of Sarah Meadows, Liv's performance radiates authenticity, leaving no doubt that this role was destined for her. Her portrayal of Annie exudes old Hollywood star quality, and her stage presence is truly remarkable.
Katy Ellis skilfully takes on the role of Martha. With comic flair and charming wit, Ellis brings Martha's thoughts to life, infusing the character with delightful nuance. While Annie weaves the narrative, Martha's hesitance and humorous antics provide the perfect balance, eliciting laughter from the audience. Throughout the show, Katy astounds as she embodies various characters in Annie's story, infusing each with unique purpose and unveiling layers of compassion, empathy, and a hint of romance.
Both Liv and Katy breathe a profound humanity into these characters, capturing the hearts of the audience. Their nuanced performances are a testament to their immense talent and dedication, leaving us in awe of their emotional range.
The minimalist yet ingenious set design by Amy Jane Cook effortlessly transports us to multiple locations, aided by clever use of props and set pieces that set our imaginations free. Matt Powell's projections expand the space, while Andrew Johnson's sound design adds an extra layer of brilliance, spotlighting the subtlest of sounds.
At the heart and soul of Ride lies its soul-stirring music. The mesmerising melodies and emotionally charged lyrics take us on an unforgettable journey, resonating deeply within us. While some musical moments may seem repetitive, they ultimately deliver an emotional and vocal punch, showcasing the brilliance of new British compositions.
Ride is an absolute triumph of storytelling, talent, and artistic vision. This emotionally charged musical takes us on a profound journey of self-reflection and connection. While it may not boast the grandeur of a West End spectacle, its simplicity and sincerity are what set it apart. Ride showcases the very essence of what theatre can offer, leaving us yearning to relive this magical journey again and again.
Reviewed on Monday 24th July by Olivia Mitchell
Photo Credit: Danny Kaan
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday 18 July 2023
Talking at Night by Claire Daverley book review: A Captivating Journey into the Depths of Human Emotion
embraces the honesty of life, presenting stories that feel authentic and sincere"
Talking at Night by Claire Daverley
Published: 6th July 2023 by Michael Joseph
★★★★
Talking at Night by Claire Daverley is a beautifully quiet treasure of a book, taking readers on a heartfelt journey, through the complexities of human relationships. Daverley's storytelling is absolutely exquisite diving into the world's of her characters, leaving readers teary eyed and filled with a whirlwind of emotions.
The characters in Talking at Night are expertly crafted, with each one feeling genuine and relatable, baring their fears, insecurities and dreams for all to see. Daverley skilfully delves into their minds painting a picture of their struggles and victories. The protagonist, Rosie's, path of self discovery is captivating and truly inspiring while the supporting characters add a level of richness and depth that elevates the narrative and fully engages the reader.
The novel embraces the honesty of life, presenting stories that feel authentic and sincere. It beautifully showcases the significance of "normal" lives reminding us that they hold just as much magic and worth as those portrayed in larger than life media tales.
One of the books highlights is the interweaving of dual timelines featuring Will and Rosie, the leads. This technique enriches the plot and offers a reflection, on how our past shapes our present and future.
Daverley's poetic prose is another strong aspect of Talking at Night. Her use of words is incredibly powerful and she manages to captivate readers, by immersing them in the emotional world of the novel, never shying away from tackling difficult subjects. The exploration of themes like love, loss, forgiveness, and redemption are so thoughtfully handled, making the novel resonate on a profound level. The vibrant descriptions enable readers to feel the characters happiness and sadness as if they were personally involved resulting in a reading experience that's reminiscent of watching a film. Fans of Love, Rosie and Me Before You will certainly enjoy this tale.
My only slight reservation is that, in a few instances, the pacing felt slightly off and there was a slight lag. However, this is a minor flaw which doesn't really detract from how strong this book is, and in some ways could be seen as reflection of life and the up and down pacing of the real world off the page.
Talking at Night is an exceptional work of fiction that should be celebrated for its thought-provoking themes, remarkable character development, and lyrical prose. Claire Daverley has crafted a tale that tugs at the heartstrings and lingers in the mind, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates a deeply moving and immersive literary experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this novel and hope that it will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
Reviewed by Olivia Mitchell
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