Showing posts sorted by relevance for query Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). Sort by date Show all posts
Wednesday, 24 April 2024
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) at the Criterion Theatre Review: A Warm Hug of a Musical
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
Criterion Theatre
Buckle up, because Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) at the Criterion Theatre is a rollercoaster of heartwarming goodness that’ll make you want to hug strangers on the tube home (maybe not advisable, but you get the vibe). The show, a recent transfer from the kiln Theatre is musical theatre romcom you've been waiting, like the best early 2000s rom-coms, but on stage, and with live-action vibes that'll have you grinning from ear to ear- it needs to be on your radar.
The story follows two total strangers, Robin and Dougal, who, by a twist of fate, find themselves on a wild journey through the bustling streets of New York City. Cue the quirky meet-cute, the awkward yet endearing conversations, and a whole lot of unexpected adventure. But what really sets this show apart is its knack for capturing the essence of the Big Apple. You'll feel like you're right there in the heart of NYC, dodging taxis and soaking in the neon lights.
Relentlessly optimistic Dougal heads across the pond to attend his father's wedding, and also to actually meet him for the first time. At the airport he's greeted by Robin, the bride's sister, who's job is to pick him up and then leave him be for the rest of the trip. Of course, that's not the case and the pair end up drawn to one another as they discover and rediscover the city, all whilst finding out about one another. It's as heartwarming as could be and is really just a hug of a musical.
The leading pair are like a perfect slice of New York pizza—full of flavour and impossible to resist. Their chemistry is off the charts, and you'll find yourself rooting for them every step of the way. As Robin, Dujonna Gift gives a brilliant performance, full of stereotypical New Yorker cynicism, but like us all, is soon charmed by her new British acquaintance Dougal. Her comedic timing is wonderful and she really draws us into her world and inner turmoil. In the role of the NYC Newbie, Sam Tutty is the embodiment of charismatic. His performance is hilariously funny and the undercurrent of deeper, darker emotions are wonderfully contrasted. A master of nuanced facial expressions that tell a thousand emotions, and vocals that soar and shine- Sam gives a top grade performance. The pair are perfectly matched and create some absolute theatrical magic on stage.
Aside from the story of the two characters altering each other's lives, this musical is, in every sense of the saying, a love letter to New York. Soutra Gilmour's design turns a revolving set of suitcases into a bustling city, where anything can happen and Tony Gayle's sound design highlights the ever present noise of Manhattan. Of course it's a romcom rose-coloured view, but there is some commentary on New York's darker side which helps ground the piece.
Musically, this show is like a playlist straight out of your favourite indie film, that's been musical theatre-ified. A mixture of styles create a soundtrack that feels genuinely unique and truly fun, setting the perfect mood for every scene. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll probably leave the theatre humming a catchy tune or two. The opening number, New York! is especially joyous and really sums up the show with humour, sincerity, awe, joy and a little bit of tension.
But perhaps the real star of the show is the script. It's sharp, it's witty, and packed with enough heart to fill Times Square. You'll find yourself laughing out loud multiple times and swooning at not only the characters, but the city on stage. Jim Barne's and Kit Buchan's writing is wonderfully fast paced and the characterisation of each lead is so strong. You almost forget you're watching a two person show when such a rich tapestry of a world is created.
In short, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is a delightful romp through the city that never sleeps. It's charming, it's heartwarming, and it's everything you could want in a night out at the theatre. I loved the way it joyously celebrates the 'normal' people and reminds us that even the smallest of meetings, can change our lives. So grab your metro (Oyster) card and get ready for a ride—you won't regret it.
★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 23rd April 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday, 5 November 2024
Cast Announced for Stiles + Drewe’s Best New Song Prize Concert 2024: A Star-Studded Celebration of New Musical Theatre Talent
Prepare for an unforgettable night of new musical theatre as Mercury Musical Developments and Stiles + Drewe, in partnership with Broadway Licensing Global, present the 2024 Best New Song Prize Concert. Hosted by Olivier Award-winning actor Jenna Russell, this one-night-only gala will take place at The Other Palace on Monday, December 2 at 7:30 pm, showcasing the incredible talent of both emerging and established musical theatre creators.
This unique concert features a glittering cast, including stage icons like Charlie McCullagh (42 Balloons, Jesus Christ Superstar), Desmonda Cathabel (Aladdin, Miss Saigon), Lauryn Redding (Standing at the Sky’s Edge), Natalie Paris (Pretty Woman, SIX), Obioma Ugoala (Frozen, Hamilton), Samuel Barnett (Rock Follies), and Tim Howar (Rock of Ages, The Phantom of the Opera). Also performing are Allyson Ava Brown (Hamilton, Les Misérables), Cassius Hackforth (Something Rotten), Dan Partridge (Grease), Jodie Jacobs (Hello Dolly!), and Liv Andrusier (Fiddler on the Roof).
Alongside performances from these incredible artists, the event will feature songs from recent British musical successes like Becoming Nancy, Cable Street, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), and 42 Balloons. The evening celebrates the vitality of new writing with a special showcase of 12 finalist songs, which include:
- 'The Temptation of Me' from Proud by Mark Anderson & Lee Freeman
- 'I’m Going to Stay With You' from The Tale of the Gifted Prince by Lezlie Wade & Dan Green
- 'It Starts Small' from Unfolding by Emma Vieceli
- 'Ideal Robot Assistant' from A.I. Will Solve All Your Problems by Leo Mercer
- 'Someday My Prince Will Come' from Queering the Canon by Cheeyang Ng & Eric Sorrels
- 'Viareggio' from Lifeboats by Gus Gowland
- 'Die Like Trees' from Girl Goes to the Underworld by Sam Norman & Bela Kawalec
- 'Hero' from Man Vs Snake the Epic Musical by Stuart Matthew Price & Daniel Fletcher
- 'Spread a Little Joy Around the Place' from Retail Therapy by Hilmi Jaidin
- 'Locked Away' from The Queen is Mad by Amy Clare Tasker & Tom McGrath
- 'Drek!' from Otto's Weidt's Brush and Broom Workshop for the Blind by Amir Shoenfeld & Caitlyn Burt
- 'Invisible' from Hatched! by Lydia Shaw & Edward Court
A distinguished panel of judges, including Chris Bush, George Stiles, Anthony Drewe, and Joanne Benjamin, will select the winning song, awarding £1,000 toward the winner’s development. An additional award recognising Voice, Vision & Potential will also be presented. Sponsored by Broadway Licensing Global, Dorico, Tarento Productions, and Kenny Wax Productions, the Best New Song Prize Concert celebrates the vibrant future of British musical theatre and its outstanding creative talent.
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