Wednesday 4 October 2023
Life of Pi on Tour at the New Victoria Theatre Review: A Painful Story Vibrantly Brought to Life
Life of Pi (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
★★★★★
Before last night I had no prior exposure to Life of Pi. I hadn't read Yann Martel's acclaimed novel or watched Ang Lee's award-winning film. Approaching the play with no preconceptions, I found it enchanting. While it may not resonate with everyone, I personally adored the captivating production by playwright Lolita Chakrabarti. It held my attention from the very beginning to the end of the performance. I found myself deeply engrossed in Pi's perspective on faith, humanity, survival, brutality, and mankind, and I even wished there hadn't been an interval as I was so enthralled.
The narrative revolves around Piscine "Pi" Patel, the son of a zookeeper in Pondicherry, who claims to have survived a shipwreck on a life-raft with a Bengal tiger as his companion.
Some readers might initially think this story isn't their cup of tea, but let me assure you that the magic lies in the simplicity of the stage design, the visual effects, and the lighting that interweaves the tale. The incredible collection of large puppets portraying the captive animals from the zoo adds to this magic.
The play centers around Pi, portrayed by Divesh Subaskaran in his impressive professional debut. Divesh truly shines in this role, immersing the audience in Pi's world. I was particularly impressed by his performance, seamlessly transitioning from a mischievous young man-boy to an overwrought, delusional individual grappling with the world's cruelty. He later revealed a kinder, gentler side, yearning to believe in the world of storytelling and escape the horrors of the boat's events. The two actors who questioned the young Pi about his experiences greatly complemented Divesh's portrayal, contributing to the unraveling of the story with their strong performances.
Credit must be given to the entire cast. The stage was always vibrant with energy, the performers transforming it in seconds as Pi recalled flashbacks of his voyage. The mastery of the remarkable puppeteers, animating butterflies, shoals of fish, a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and the Bengal tiger, was truly commendable. Special acknowledgment goes to those who skillfully maneuvered the Bengal Tiger, creating a sense of predatory readiness on the boat.
For me, the imaginative world that offers solace from the world's atrocities, coupled with the magical animals brought to life through outstanding puppetry, are the true stars of this show. This made the theatrical event a thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone.
Reviewed on Tuesday 3rd October 2023 by Glenys Balchin
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday 3 October 2023
Sondheim's Old Friends at the Gielgud Theatre Review: A Magical Piece of Theatre History
Sondheim's Old Friends
Gielgud Theatre
★★★★★
Musical theatre is what it is today, in no small part thanks to the brilliance of Stephen Sondheim, and this musical revue gloriously celebrates that whilst also providing an amazing memorial of Stephen and his melodic legacy. Devised by Cameron Mackintosh, the show like opening a musical time capsule which whisks you back to a bygone era, and a theatrical peak; showcasing a selection of the well known and lesser known Sondheim pieces.
Every aspect of the show is like a trip down memory lane, capturing the essence of a glamorous past. Jill Parker's costumes are simplistic enough for the setting whilst really elevating the story telling necessary to truly do Sondheim's work justice. Particularly impressive are the wolf ensemble and Mrs Lovett's get up which both have a refreshing modern feel. Set wise, Matt Kinley's design cleverly uses the Les Miserables moving pieces to create visual interest and bring some real wow moments to the stage. The entire Sweeney Todd section is impeccable. Thanks to Matthew Bourne's staging and direction, you find yourself lost in the magic, engulfed in the nostalgic beauty of a time that lives on through this production.
The show features the creme de la creme of the musical theatre world, with Broadway royalty Lea Salonga and Bernadette Peters taking the helm, and proving why they are so beloved- it feels like an out of body experience seeing such wonders. The whole cast give standout performances and there are truly too many to name but mention must go to Bradley Jaden's Wolf, Joanna Riding's 'Not Getting Married Today' and Jeremy Secomb's Sweeney Todd. Christine Allado and Bonnie Langford, are also wonderful and the cast really doesn't have a weak link. Universally their voices, movements and energy are enchanting- conjuring a musical spell that leaves you mesmerised. Each song feels like a little piece of history, beautifully presented and cherished. Stephen Mear's choreography adds to this magical experience, bringing a further touch of grace and finesse to proceedings.
Conducted by Alfonso Casado Trigo the orchestra are humungous aspect of the success of this show. Faultlessly performing every note, their music lingers long after the final bow.
Sondheim's Old Friends at the Gielgud Theatre is a magical trip through musical history. It's a celebration of Sondheim's genius and the enchantment of the stage. If you're seeking a dose of wonder and a reminder of the magic that live performances bring, don't miss this truly magical experience.
Reviewed on Thursday 28th September 2023 by Olivia Mitchell
Photo Credit: Danny Kaan
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday 27 September 2023
The King and I on tour at the New Victoria Theatre Review: An Enchanting Evening
New Victoria Theatre
★★★★★
Last night the New Victoria theatre came alive with Rodgers and Hammerstein's timeless musical, The King and I. Set in the 1860s, the storyline revolves around the King of Siam, portrayed by Brian Rivera, who hires the intelligent British schoolteacher Anna Leonowens, played by Annalene Beechey, to educate his extensive family. The clash of their personalities and cultural backgrounds sets the stage for a compelling narrative.
The performances showcased a beautiful transformation of understanding and mutual appreciation between the stubborn monarch and the determined British teacher. This transformation is beautifully encapsulated through the touching rendition of 'Getting to Know You' by Anna (Annalene Beechey) and the Royal Children, leaving the audience in awe.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s memorable score stole the spotlight, standing the test of time. The talented cast breathed life into these classic songs, leaving the audience longing for more. The chemistry between the leads was palpable, and both Beechey and Rivera delivered exceptional performances. Beechey's voice charmed the audience, while Rivera's portrayal of the King of Siam was both strong and hypnotic, reminiscent of Yul Brynner's iconic performance at the London Palladium in 1979.
Special mention must be made of other outstanding cast members, including Cezarah Bonner as Lady Thiang and Marienella Phillips as Tuptim, who delivered exceptional performances that enriched the overall experience.
The stage was adorned with a stunning backdrop featuring vibrant colors that transported the audience to the sumptuous world of the King’s Palace, thanks to the masterful designs by Michael Yeargan. Catherine Zuber's costumes enhanced the performers' presence, making them glitter and shine against the opulent palace setting.
The choreography by Christopher Gattelli was a true standout, with intricate dance numbers blending traditional Thai movement with a modern flair. The 'Small House of Uncle Thomas' dance sequence was particularly mesmerising, captivating the audience with its hypnotic beauty and emotional resonance. Generally the show is well paced, although Act 2 might have felt a bit lengthy to some.
In summary, The King and I musical on tour provides a captivating experience, combining talented performers, unforgettable music, entrancing dance sequences, an immersive set, and beautiful costumes. I wholeheartedly recommend this production, and for me, it was undoubtedly a 5 out of 5.
Reviewed on Tuesday 26th September by Glenys Balchin
Photo Credit: Johann Persson
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday 20 September 2023
Police Cops: The Musical at the Southwark Playhouse Review: A Hilarious Riot of a Show
Southwark Playhouse (Borough)
★★★★
Who'd have thought a comedy musical about the US police force could be so entertaining? Well, Police Cops: The Musical proves it's possible. Fresh from wowing crowds at the Edinburgh Fringe, this lively spoof of 80s American action films has now hit London.
Created by Zachary Hunt, Nathan Parkinson, and Tom Roe, this musical takes you on a wild ride through all the clichés of action movies. It follows Jimmy Johnson, a regular teenager turned aspiring 'best damn police cop ever' after a tragic loss. He sets off on a mission to take down the big bad criminals, teaming up with a retired rogue cop, jetting off to Mexico and reconnecting with his high school crush. And all of this is delivered with a relentless dose of stupendously silly comedy.
In this latest iteration of Police Cops, the original team have penned some brilliantly witty lyrics, set to a catchy score by Ben Adams of Eugenius, drawing on musical theatre tropes and classic 80s hits. Andrew Exeter's set and lighting work is magical once again, contributing to a high-energy, high-budget production.
Police Cops: The Musical is outrageously ridiculous yet impressively slick, excellently performed, and keeps you engaged throughout. The humour is silly and over the top, and the cast and crew showcase their real skill in blending comic satire with musical theatre and improv, hitting every comedic and musical beat perfectly. Through the recurring gags, hilarious stage craft and show-stopping numbers it's clear this team understands their genres and have created something uniquely entertaining by merging them. Plus, the writing is really self-aware, touching on outrageous ideas but never crossing the line.
Melinda Orengo, Natassia Bustamente and at this performance Mychele Lebrun as well, all deliver standout performances. All three seamlessly blend polished musical theatre with offbeat character comedy. Zachary Hunt, Nathan Parkinson, and Tom Roe, the masterminds behind this show, also star in it, showcasing their versatility. Hunt, as the leading man, pours endless energy and enthusiasm into his role, while Roe's sharp comic timing and Parkinson's unhinged characters add to the laughter.
One of the most delightful aspects of Police Cops is how evident it is that the entire team is having a blast. You can often catch cast members trying to stifle their laughter, and the musical director, Gabriel Chernick, exudes such joy, especially during a hilarious improv section involving sweets!
In Ameri-conclusion, Police Cops: The Musical is an unexpected treasure, blending zany satire with polished, professional musical theatre. It's hard not to have a grin plastered on your face throughout the performance—it's an absolute blast!
Reviewed on Tuesday 19th September by Olivia Mitchell
Photo Credit: Pamela Raith
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
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