Chester

Dear Evan Hansen

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just over two years since it closed in London’s West End, multi-Tony, Grammy and Olivier award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen has embarked on a UK tour, stopping this week at Chester’s Storyhouse.

Dear Evan Hansen follows the story of socially anxious high school student Evan who accidentally gets caught up in a lie which quickly snowballs beyond all control. Following the death of fellow pupil, Connor Murphy, a therapy letter Evan wrote to himself is mistakenly confused as the pupil’s suicide note and Evan soon becomes deeply entrenched in the grieving families lives. The musical has received some criticism over the years with some audiences finding the subject matter and elements within the story problematic however there’s no doubt it’s beautiful score with music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land/The Greatest Showman) has confirmed its status as a modern classic.

This new production has clearly examined the previous problematic elements and softened Evan, that combined with Ryan Kopel’s superb physical and emotional interpretation of the schoolboy results in a gentler, more likeable Evan and one who we feel more compassion towards. Kopel’s portrayal really is mesmerising, his Evan is a fidgeting, hand-wringing, blinking bundle of nervous energy while his deep longing for connection is sensitively and gently explored. His characterisation is incredible while he delivers stunning vocals throughout, notably Word’s Fail which is breath-taking as we witness him visually unravel under the pressure of the lie that’s seemingly unstoppable.

The rest of the cast compliment Kopel perfectly. West End favourite Alice Fearn’s portrayal of Heidi, Evan’s Mum is perfection, her rendition of So Big/So Small brought many in the audience to tears while her unconditional love for her troubled teen Evan plays out beautifully, frustratingly and authentically.

Killian Thomas Lefevre is fantastic as troubled teenager Connor Murphy, popping up when we least expect it enriching the story with each surprising appearance. Lauren Conroy plays Connor’s sister Zoe Murphy with strength and sensitivity while Richard Hurst and Helen Anker’s performances as Connor’s parents are deeply moving, portraying parents who have so tragically lost a child with raw and honest emotion. Will Forgrave covering tonight as Evan’s ‘family friend’ Jared Kleinman brings some welcome light relief while Vivian Panka is a driven and determined Alana with vocals to die for.

Morgan Lane’s box set design is lined with mirrors and sliding doors which allows us to see each scene from various fractured angles while allowing the action to easily shift location. The use of video screens is hugely effective cementing that feeling of social media’s all consuming impact while Matt Daw’s lighting design is equally as impressive.

The small ensemble replicate Evan’s frantic, racing mind through Carrie-Anne Ingrouille’s modern choreography, although they feel a little underused in the piece when the do feature they impress.

This thought-provoking, intricately crafted piece of theatre will long live in the memory. At times a gut-wrenching watch, it’s important messages about visibility and self-acceptance remain strong while the spotlight it shines on the influence of social media, isolation, anonymity and connection feel ever poignant. This is a quality piece of theatre with a story that will connect with many and by far one of the best scores of recent years. With tickets selling fast you won’t want to miss this musical masterpiece.

Dear Evan Hansen is on at Storyhouse Chester until Saturday 22nd March limited tickets available here.

The Parent Agency

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Reviewed by Matthew Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

David Baddiel will be familiar to many of us for different reasons. For some, we know him for stand-up and comedy. Whilst for others, he’ll have provided the soundtrack to another heartbreaking defeat for the England football team. Others may know him for his work as a playwright, or for his charity work. A blind spot for me was Baddiel’s work as an author of children’s literature – with ten books aimed at children, it would be fair to say this aspect of his career is going well.

Well now he can add musical theatre to his impressive CV. Baddiel teams up with composer Dan Gillespie Sells, who composed the mega smash hit Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, to bring The Parent Agency to life as it receives its world premiere at Chester’s Storyhouse.

Based on Baddiel’s first children’s book, The Parent Agency focuses on Barry, a ten-year old boy rapidly approaching his 11th birthday. Barry has big plans for his special day: a James Bond themed party complete with Bond gadgets and a ride in a fancy car. However, things aren’t looking great, with Barry’s dad, Geoff, picking up the wrong Casino Royle DVD for the party, the David Niven one! This is the final straw for the young boy, who resents his parents for naming him Barry in the first place. On top of that he finds them boring and hates that they are poor.

An argument between Barry and the rest of his family sees him storm off to his room. With only his posters of James Bond and French footballer, Kylian Mbappé for company, he wishes he had better parents. With this wish Barry is transported to The Parent Agency or TPA for short. At TPA the children can pick their parents. Barry has the four days before his birthday to be matched up with his perfect parents. If they fail, something that has never happened before, something unspeakable will happen to Barry.

There is so much to enjoy about the production, it’s an absolute treat from start to finish. At tonight’s performance, Max Bispham was in fine form as Barry: charismatic, charming and filled with warmth and wit. He showcases superb comic timing, matched with a tremendous singing voice.

Rebecca McKinnis and Rakesh Boury are an awesome pairing as Barry’s mum and dad, Susan and Geoff. However, it’s as the various potential parents where the pair absolutely smash it. These include the super-rich, monstrous Rader-Welllorffs and the fitness enthusiasts the Fwahms. As well as the self-centred celebrities Vlassorina, and my own personal favourite, the flakey, hippy hipsters the Cools. Both Mckinnis and Boury go all in and embrace the absurdity of each character and it’s an absolute joy to watch.

Under Tim Jackson’s direction, the action is fast paced and slick. The big comic set pieces work brilliantly with the undoubted highlight being the Fwahm’s Van Halen’s Jump inspired fitness routine – as stunning as it is bonkers. Whilst the Cool’s red double decker bus sequence, is more Rik Mayall’s Young Ones, than Sir Cliff’s! The added extra touches of money raining down upon the audience as well as smoke filled bubbles completely enchanted the younger audience members, as well as some of us oldies too!

Baddiel’s script is smart, witty, with the right balance between big laughs, and beautiful, touching observations about family. It’s refreshing to see a show that doesn’t pitch some of its jokes at adults, and some at kids. Here the jokes are universal and highlights how a great gag can be enjoyed by an audience of all ages.

The musical numbers are catchy, with Barry being the perfect opener, whilst The Rador-Wellorffs and Gonna Make You Sweat are superbly silly, aided by some stunning visuals and outstanding work from the insanely talented ensemble cast. Costume design by Sarah Mercadé is outstanding, and combined with the skills of this incredible cast completely transports you into the world of the TPA. Barry’s parents Susan and Geoff (Mckinnis and Boury) convince us entirely that they are different characters with each costume change. All the creatives involved have excelled themselves creating a truly memorable production which will easily sit at home in the West End. Visually it is stunning, with the attention to detail second to none.

This is a truly joyous production, with plenty of heart, and something for everyone: an enormously entertaining and hugely enjoyable story, told with incredible set pieces and super slick humour. We’d better get used to the name Barry coming back in fashion, because The Parent Agency is going to be around for quite some time, and according to my 9 year old mini-reviewer, “The best show I’ve ever seen”.

The Parent Agency runs until 2nd March tickets are available here.

Images Mark McNulty and also supplied by the production.

Heathers The Musical

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Images Pamela Raith

From its beginnings as a concert version back in 2010 to its multiple West End runs and now third UK tour, Heathers the Musical continues to gain fans and cement its cult status as one of the most loved productions for younger theatregoers.

Based on the 1980’s classic film of the same name starring cinematic icons Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, Heathers introduces us to Veronica Sawyer, (Jenna Innes). An awkward, outcast who just wants to make it through her final year at Westerberg High unscathed.

There are the traditional school cliques, the nerds, the jocks and of course the queen bees who in Westberg come in the form of the three Heathers, leader of the pack Heather Chandler (Esme Bowdler) and her loyal sidekicks Heather Duke (Sedona Sky) and Heather McNamara (Daisy Twells). It’s safe to say they rule the school.

After unexpectedly finding favour with the three Heathers, Veronica quickly realises that this newfound friendship could be the key to beating the food hall bullies once and for all. What she doesn’t bargain for however, is the arrival of mysterious new kid, J.D. who brings a whole new level of trouble to her door.

Heathers’ multi-layered storyline cleverly covers numerous dark themes with sardonic wit and a killer score. The quality of the cast ensures that each fan favourite from Candy Store to Seventeen is delivered in truly memorable style, whipping the audience of devoted fans into a Big Fun frenzy.

Making a return to the role of Veronica is a sensational Jenna Innes. She absolutely shines on stage, her development from hopeful opening number Beautiful to the self-assured I Say No is mesmerising to watch while her vocals are sensational throughout. Her pairing with Keelan McAuley is superb, he makes for a marvellously menacing J.D. Brooding and brilliant. His delivery of Meant To Be Yours is next level, really showcasing his impressive talent and incredible range. The two are a match made in heaven…or hell if you’re a Westerberg teen.

Esme Bowdler is a perfect Heather Chandler, sharp and sassy she has the audience in the palm of her hand from the moment she arrives on stage with fellow Heathers, Sedona Sky and Daisy Twells. Their iconic entrance, all dry ice and glamazonian gliding really sets you up for the wild ride they’re about to take you on.

Sedona Sky makes an impressive stage debut as the spoilt Heather Duke while Daisy Wells delivers a stunning and emotionally charged rendition of Lifeboat during her Act II solo. The trio together are terrifically terrorising.

Amy Miles gives us all the feels with her beautiful delivery of Kindergarten Boyfriend while Ivan Fernandez Gonzalez and Jason Battersby as Kurt Kelly and Ram Sweeney ramp up the laughs as deliciously dumb high school jocks.

Heathers is one of the must fun shows of recent years, its connection with its target audience is undeniable. The score is exhilarating while the script feels modern and sharp. Yes, there are dark themes, but the comedic moments and gallows humour comes thick and fast ensuring you’re never more than a few moments away from an iconic put down or some serious sass.

This cast is one of the best I’ve seen, they really elevate an already fun show to the next level capturing perfectly the intensity of High School feeling like your whole entire world. While Heathers may not leave you yearning for your teenage years, it’ll certainly leave you thrilled that you took a trip to Westerberg, albeit from the safety of your seat. Hugely entertaining theatre, jam-packed with unforgettable performances and an assured self-awareness that ensures it really hits the mark, sensational!

Heathers The Musical is on at Chester’s Storyhouse until Saturday 21st September tickets are available here.

The Gangs of New York

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Images by Mark McNulty

Storyhouse and Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre productions have become somewhat of a must for theatre lovers during the summer months. With its purpose built theatre set in the beautiful picturesque surroundings of this Victorian park, it is the perfect setting for live theatre.

The venue has hosted some fantastic productions over the years which have included Little Women and The Great Gatsby. Continuing with the theme of adapting celebrated works of literature, one of this year’s offerings is The Importance of Being Earnest, the other is a far more daring prospect: the world premiere of The Gangs of New York, based on the factual book of the same name by celebrated American journalist, Herbert Asbury.

Set in the mid 1800’s, we are introduced to John Morrisey (Oisín Thompson) and Hellcat Maggie (Hanora Kamen) , a pair of Irish immigrants fresh off the boat arriving in America. It would appear that they have a certain skills set which will help them to survive the mean streets of New York, Maggie, is a light-fingered pickpocket, whilst Morrisey is equally as good with his hands as a boxer.

Almost immediately Morrisey’s growing reputation draws the ire of local gangland chieftain, William Poole (James Sheldon) a.k.a ‘Bill the Butcher’, as he puts it “a true American ”. Poole’s love of violence is only matched by his hatred for all immigrants landing in America hoping to make a better life for themselves. Soon the pair enter into a blood feud, which threatens to cost both of them not just their business ventures, but their lives as well.

As a huge fan of the 2002 Martin Scorsese, Gangs of New York, I was intrigued to say the least by how the production was going to unfold, and I’m more than happy to say it does not disappoint. The story doesn’t just focus on the prejudice and bigotry that many immigrants faced, but also the seedy criminal underworld of New York. Crooked cops, and bent politicians are all thrown into the mix, rather sadly it would appear that 1840’s USA isn’t too different from modern society.

At its core writer Kieran Lynn’s adaptation focuses on two love stories: Morrisey and Suzie Smith (Yolanda Ovide), a young women, from a wealthy family who has ambition to be more than just some rich man’s trophy wife. Whilst the other is the forbidden romance between Maggie and Lew Baker (Lucas Button), a local beat police officer, indebted to Bill the Butcher. It’s a bold move and one that pays dividends as you firmly invest and care about what will become of them all.

Director John Young’s production despite its weighty subject matter is filled with energy and a surprising amount of humour, there are sly, on point one liners which hit the mark throughout. In addition, the glorious in-the-round setting allows for some audience interaction, with some (un)willing audience members dragged up to be part of the show.

Throughout there are various cast members playing all manner of musical instruments, and performing songs giving an authentic folk/roots feel to the production. These light touches mean that when an act of violence does take place, it’s all the more brutal and comes as a bit of a shock.

The cast are in fine form throughout, Oisín Thompson gives a performance packed full of charisma. James Sheldon has a commanding stage presence, full of menace and rage. Hanora Kamen puts in a turn full of sass and grit, whilst Yolanda Ovide gives a restrained, measured performance, as one of the few voices of reason. Lucas Button is equally impressive as the troubled police officer, with a performance full of nervous energy and subtle comic timing, his arc is the one that underpins the entire production.

It’s a bold, brave choice to adapt this weighty, historical book for the stage, but one that rewards its audience with an entertaining and surprisingly fun watch. It’s a production performed by a super talented ensemble cast of actors and musicians, in an as perfect (weather permitting) setting as you’re going to get, live theatre doesn’t get much better than this!

The Gangs of New York is on at Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre until 31st August tickets are available here.

Kinky Boots

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

With a Tony nominated book by Harvey Fierstein plus Tony and Grammy award-winning songs by Cyndi Lauper, Kinky Boots, based on the film of the same name by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth struts into Storyhouse this month and this all-new revival is just as fun as you’d hope it to be.

When Charlie Price’s father passes away, he inherits the failing family shoemaking business. Torn between saving the factory and leaving it all behind for a new life in London with girlfriend Nicola, Charlie is at a crossroads. A chance meeting with a flamboyant drag queen called Lola, opens Charlie’s mind to the fact that he might just have it within him to save the business while also unexpectedly saving himself.

Danny Becker is a wonderful Charlie Price. His impressive journey is filled with heart as he explores, (at times without realising) who he truly is. He draws you in and has you rooting for him throughout while his vocals soar, particularly during Soul of a Man and the incredibly beautiful Not My Father’s Son. This duet with Duane-Lamonte O’Garro as Lola, while one of the simplest moments in the show genuinely packs an emotional punch.

Duane-Lamonte O’Garro is perfectly cast as Lola, bursting with soul and sass he convincingly embodies Lola and gives us a character we wholly believe in. Fiercely fabulous one moment, sucker punching us the next with his heartfelt performance during Hold Me In Your Heart. A multifaceted performer who really shines.

Leah Vassell brings warmth and heaps of humour as a charismatic Lauren, raising the energy of the show during her solo The History of Wrong Guys. From here the show really gets into its stride.

Gareth Cassidy as factory foreman George is a joy while Roddy Lynch is a perfect Don.

Of course there’s no Kinky Boots without Lola’s Angels; James Lowrie, Remi Martin and Thomas Sankey are heavenly as they join Lola on stage, giving us slick vocals and complex choreography all while wearing six inch heels.

Add to this a multi-talented ensemble of muso-actors and you’ve got everything you need for a great piece of theatre. That said there are moments when instruments felt a little distracting during certain scenes such as Don entering the boxing ring with his guitar around his neck and Nicola suddenly whipping out a trumpet after declaring she’d found her perfect shoes.

Director Amber Sinclair-Case has made some inspired choices with the finale really giving us that memorable moment we all wish for.

This is hugely entertaining, uplifting theatre that not only entertains but gently educates in the most wholesome of ways, showing beautifully how challenging prejudice and embracing difference can lead to true acceptance of both ourselves and each other. Kinky Boots will raise you up, an up, and up!

Kinky Boots is on at Storyhouse Chester until Saturday 18th May, tickets available here.

The Snow Queen

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Chester Storyhouse are offering audiences a fabulously festive alternative to panto this year with an imaginative retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale, The Snow Queen.

Writer Charles Wray has adapted and opened up the story ensuring all four seasons get their moment in the spotlight while it’s themes of kindness and friendship remain a strong constant throughout as we see Gerda on her journey to find her best friend Cei who has been taken under the spell of the evil Snow Queen.

This modernised version feels bright and inventive with a strong cast who play multiple roles with an easy versatility. Rosemarie Akwafo gives us a loyal and determined Gerda who despite the odds never loses hope of finding her best friend again. Taona Matope displays strong versatility as carefree schoolboy Cei whose life is completely turned around by the evil Snow Queen.

Lucy Tuck makes for a super sinister baddie and in true Snow Queen fashion is sparklier than the Strictly Mirrorball but colder than ice. Special mention also to Chloe Wade, her comic timing as each of her various characters is superb. The supporting cast who each take on multiple roles are a joy, clearly having great fun in this heart-warming, inventive production. There’s a tap dancing reindeer, an almost homage to Barbie and Ken and a fabulous dance off.

Director Hannah Noone has really brought the fun to this story while singer-songwriter Mared Williams heads up a fantastic live band who add enormously to this musical adventure. They play some stunning music with equally as impressive vocals all while perched within the set above the audience.

Designer Jacob Hughes has transformed the Storyhouse theatre into a stunning winter scene, it’s visually beautiful and hugely atmospheric. The raised staging offers a fantastic view from every seat in this beautiful theatre, so important when there’s little ones in many of the seats.

The Snow Queen offers something for all, from young children to seniors every single member of the audience enjoyed getting swept away on this magical adventure. The small section of audience interaction was so much fun and made me wish there had been a little bit more but this is a really minor point amidst many, many positives. This exploration of good versus evil is adventurous as well as entertaining and will warm you from the tip of your toes to the top of your head.

The Snow Queen is on at Chester’s Storyhouse until Sunday 15th January tickets available here.

The Time Traveller’s Wife

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Based on the best selling novel by Audrey Niffenegger and the film screenplay by Bruce Joel Rubin, The Time Travellers Wife takes the leap into musical theatre and does so with unquestionable style.

Pop legends Dave Stewart and Joss Stone have linked up to create the music and lyrics, gifting the piece with soulful melodies and deeply layered numbers that drive and develop the story beautifully.

Portraying a tale about a time traveller could quite easily become confusing & chaotic, not here; this slick production with its clear storytelling and impressive design translates into something that’s hugely impressive and emotionally resonant.

David Hunter takes on the role of Henry, a time traveller who has no control over when or where he’ll be ripped out of the present and pulled into his past or maybe even his future. Hunter is superb in the role, every disappearance and reappearance is more impressive than the last, he’s right before your eyes one moment then appears at the opposite side of the stage in a completely different costume the next. This is a truly demanding role which he pulls off with ease & heaps of charm.

Joanne Woodward is perfectly cast as Clare. She gives the character depth and complexity while making her instantly likeable, showing both strength and vulnerability. The chemistry between the two is wonderful, their voices gel together so beautifully, lifting Stone and Stewart’s lyrics to the next level. You desperately want happiness for this duo as they portray the multi-layered characters with pure heart.

Tim Mahendran and Hiba Elchikhe add to the fun of the piece as bickering but hopelessly devoted Gomez and Charisse while as Henry’s Father, Ross Dawes makes sure his featured scene packs an emotional punch.

The set design, projections and illusions elevate this production far beyond a love story. They are thrilling, surprising and absolutely stunning. Journeyman which opens Act 2 is something very special, acting as real showcase as complex choreography, incredible vocals and impressive technology combine. Designers Anna Fleischle, Lucy Carter, Andrzej Goulding, Richard Brooker and illusionist Chris Fisher have ensured that the time travelling elements have been treated with the care they deserve, and the results are simply magical, with constant surprises keeping the audience on their toes from start to finish.

This ambitious production directed by Bill Buckhurst succeeds entirely, the technology is matched by a cast at the top of their game while the clear storytelling captivates completely. The Time Traveller’s Wife is a superb addition to musical theatre, with I hope, a long future ahead. Filled with love, heart and hope, this stunning new musical is a total triumph.

The Time Traveller’s Wife is on at Chester’s Storyhouse until Saturday 15th October tickets available here.

Will Young announces Chester Storyhouse date inc VIP Meet & Greet

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Will Young - tour shot resized

Will Young’s Show And Tell Tour comes to Storyhouse for one night only on Sunday 20 September 2020. Tickets go on sale at 10am on Friday 21 February 2020.

On his first ever spoken word tour Show And Tell, he will talk about his life and experiences to fans.

The show will cover a variety of topics, from the evolution of pop to gay rights, as well as Will’s funny moments during a unique and successful 18-year career. He will speak about numerous career highlights, from winning the first ever Pop Idol aged 22, to scoring four Number One albums and four Number One singles.

His tour in September and October will play nine venues across the country, and follows the publication of his new book, To Be A Gay Man.

Fans have the chance to meet Will before the show during a VIP Meet & Greet, places are limited. There will also be audience questions.

Will explained: “I’m really looking forward to this. It’ll be a funny show and I’ll be talking about my career as well as looking at mental health, gay rights and much, much more. It’s a spoken word show – there’s no music – and I’m excited to be following the publication of my new book with nine UK dates.”

The show follows the success of Will’s latest record, Lexicon. It follows his life from the age of four, through boarding school and university, to entering and winning the biggest talent competition ever seen, Pop Idol. He will reflect on a successful pop career, as well as talking about being one of the first openly gay pop stars.

The tour will start in Worthing on 12 September, before visiting Cheltenham, Bristol, Chester, Lincoln, Yarm, Porthcawl, Kingston-Upon-Thames, and Shrewsbury.

Tickets for Will Young’s Show And Tell show are priced from £25. Each ticket is subject to a £1.50 booking fee. A VIP Meet & Greet package is also available. Further information can be found here.

 

Malroy Towers adaptation heading to Chester

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Emma Rice’s critically acclaimed musical adaptation of Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers will be heading to the Storyhouse this summer.

This new production by Wise Children will be co-produced with Theatre By The Lake in Keswick, where the show will open on 27 March 2020, before going on a national tour.

Malory Towers opens at the Storyhouse on Tuesday 30th June running until to Saturday 4th July 2020 for eight performances, including three matinees. Tickets are on sale now and can be booked here.

Original 2019 cast of Malory Towers, credit Steve Tanner 1

Nostalgic, naughty and perfect for now, Malory Towers is the original ‘girl power’ story, filled with high jinks, high drama and high spirits, all set to sensational live music and breath-taking animation.

Adapted and directed by Emma Rice, this is a show for girls, boys – and grown-up children who still dream of midnight feasts and Cornish cliff-tops. Set and costume design are by Lez Brotherston, lighting by Malcolm Rippeth, sound and video by Simon Baker, and original music by Ian Ross.

Tickets for Malory Towers are on sale now priced from £19.50. Each ticket is subject to a £1.50 booking fee. There is a special offer running of any ticket bookings made before 1 March 2020, children can go half price for Malory Towers shows at Storyhouse between Tuesday and Thursday.

 

The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Since opening it’s doors for the first time in 2017 the Storyhouse has often made some bold and brave choices for their in-house productions Whether a fresh take on an old classic, a brand new or rarely seen production being brought to life, they always offer up something intriguing and unique and their latest production The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde is no exception.

Based on the novella by Robert Louis Stevenson, this adaptation for the stage by Glynn Maxwell is a new take on a classic story that we think we know like the back of our own hands but do we really?

Retaining its Victorian London setting, we find a young girl selling matches, she is viciously attacked in a mysterious assault. The next morning Dr Jekyll (Edward Harrison) is troubled by the memory of the match girl but confused at having a pocket full of matches but no recollection of how they got there. 

Dr Jekyll writes to his old friend and former assistant, Lady Gabriel (Natasha Bain) for guidance. However, Lady Gabriel is focused more on the letters of her niece Rose (Rosa Hesmondhalgh), a curious, feisty, independent young women seeking adventure and a place to stay in London town. 

With London besieged by a series of grizzly murders, Lady Gabriel hasn’t the time nor the inclination to help her old friend, her main concern is that of the safety and wellbeing of Rose. However, soon Rose’s curious nature rubs off on her Aunty, this coupled with her intrigue of Dr Jekyll’s work on the splitting of the soul as well the mystery surrounding the deliverer of the letters from Jekyll, a Mr Hyde (Matthew Flynn) lead the pair to a meeting with the Doctor.

Whilst at Jekyll’s house, Lady Gabriel and the Doctor have a private meeting, which Rose is certainly not invited to attend, this leads the inquisitive adventurer to go exploring when she stumbles upon Jekyll’s labratory, his journal and another encounter with Mr Hyde that puts her and and her aunty in great danger.

There is so much to admire about this production that it’s difficult to know where to start. The creative team behind the show have taken a great many risks with narrative, style and presentation and the risks reward the audience with an original, atmospheric and psychological chiller that has a great deal of relevance in the 21st century.

Maxwell’s script is an update on Stevenson’s source material, still there at it’s core is that battle, between  good and evil, and the duality of human nature, whilst making the decision to explain Jekyll/Hyde’s behaviour as that of addiction, a need to step from the dark into the light, which adds an intriguing layer. We also have a strong female presence in this adaptation, which is missing in the source material. The character of Rose is a new character, and one that is yet to be troubled and trapped by the world around her.

Under Psyche Stott excellent direction, we have four very different performances, Natasha Bain gives a strong, world weary, turn, a matriarchal figure of the piece. Rosa Hesmondhalgh is a breath of fresh air as Rose, adding light relief throughout but this is much more than a comedic performance, here is someone that the world hasn’t corrupted yet, but she is far from naïve. 

Often in productions one actor plays both Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, however we have Edward Harrison on good form as the frazzled unhinged, mad professor, whilst Matthew Flynn is menacing as his alter ego, I swear he grew in size as the play reached its conclusion. Flynn must wrestle with some poetic yet tongue-twisting dialogue, however he masters it skilfully.

 

What does make the production that extra special is involvement of choreographer,  Paul Bayes Kitcher, whose work with Harrison and Flynn really pays dividends, especially during the transformation scenes. 

Additionally, the sound design by Adrienne Quartly ratchets up the tension throughout, add into the mix a simple yet intriguing stage design of glowing copper pipes, Victorian lamps and secret passages and you have an innovative, thrilling and original piece of gothic theatre.


The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde is on at the Chester Storyhouse till the 19th October. Tickets available here. 

Henry V

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Petty political point-scoring, a none democratically elected leader making decisions shaping the future of our nation, decisions driven by a lust for power…sound familiar? Nope this isn’t a political commentary of the UK right now but Shakespeare’s Henry V.

Director Loveday Ingram places the production amidst the current political climate, (or should that be crisis?) St George’s crosses fly high as soldiers swill down booze while chants of ‘England ’til I die’ ring out from the yellow vests.

Shakespeare’s France very much represents the EU with the cast dressed in familiar vibrant blue as yellow starts billow in the breeze.

It may be 2019 but Henry V feels more pertinent now than ever before as Shakespeare’s social and political observations continue to ring true, centuries after they were first penned.

Joseph Millson takes on the role of the heroic leader. Persuasive and full of charm one moment, ruthless and murderous the next. Millson revels in the complexity of the monarch exploring every layer with subtlety and style.

He tackles Shakespeare’s famous “Once more to the breach, dear friends” monologue with a solid and rousing conviction: his army literally chomping at the bit, breathless for the battle to begin. In contrast the commanding warrior loses all composure when attempting to woo Katherine, faltering over his words as he bashfully fumbles in French.

Millson is supported by an impressively strong cast notably Samuel Collings as Pistol, Seren Vickers as Fluellen and Vanessa Schofield as Scroop/High Constable while Mitesh Soni and Sarah-Jane Potts inject some well delivered humour as Alice and Katherine.

Director Loveday Ingram and her cast not only find the heart of Henry V but also the humour too in this solid and potent production as keen observations of the human spirit play out.

Vulnerabilities of leaders are masked with chest pumping and posturing while the battlefield scenes remind us of the catastrophic consequences of decisions driven by political self-promotion. The scene after the battle of Agincourt packing a deeply emotional punch as the cast hauntingly sing to the skies.

Andrew Patterson’s dynamic lighting design adds atmosphere and depth while Paul Benzing’s fight direction adds authenticity and impact.

This is a cleverly constructed piece which will stay with audiences long after viewing. Vibrant storytelling at its finest.

Henry V is on at Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre until Sunday 25th August tickets available here.

Twelfth Night

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Twelfth Night has long been known as one of Shakespeare’s greatest comedies; in celebration of their 10th birthday Grosvenor Open Air Theatre are happy to prove why.

Locating the action in the Bohemian Balkans the celebratory festival vibe is strong, there’s flowers in hair while the drink is free flowing. The abundance of music and laughter indicate that Director Julia Thomas is prepared embrace the fun of this comedic and jubilant production.

This is an ode to the joyful and silly; there’s mistaken identities, unrequited love, a shipwreck, subterfuge as well as a whole host of entertaining characters.

The talented cast deliver Shakespeare’s verse with clear conviction while their enthusiasm and wit gives the piece both a light and accessible feel.

Separated twins Viola (Whitney Kehinde) and Sebastian (Marc Benga) each arrive on the shores of Illyria after a shipwreck; Viola first, allowing her 3 days of getting acquainted with the locals, enough time for two to fall in love with her while another two attempt to fight her albeit while she’s now dressed as as a man (Cesario) in a bid to keep the spirit of the brother she believes to be dead alive.

Kehinde is excellent as Viola/Cesario, cool and commanding she handles the confusion and complexities of life in Illyria with sass and style.

Sarah-Jane Potts shines as Olivia, hot in pursuit of her happy ending while Samuel Collings brings the house down as the put upon Malvolio whose transformation from stiff upper lipped steward to stocking wearing, downward dog facing smiler is pure genius.

Mitesh Soni is an absolute joy as Sir Andrew Aguecheek. His physical comedy, facial expressions and nice but dim personality really bringing this piece to life. Kudos to Soni for successfully delivering Shakespeare’s prose whilst flossing, impressive!

Jessica Dives as Feste takes on the form of a modern day wandering minstrel, offering an almost narrator like musical accompaniment while adding a wonderfully melodic energy to proceedings.

Director Julia Thomas isn’t afraid to embrace the silly or the slapstick and is greatly rewarded for her choices. Her cast embrace the opportunity, having a lot of fun with the piece while the audience reap the benefits.

A stand out moment which really embodies the playful nature of the production is the hilarious fight scene, outrageously farcical and absolute comedy perfection. The frequent witty exchanges between cast and audience further add to the playfulness and accessibility of this piece.

A highlight of Chester’s summer season for ten years now with productions as strong as this there is no doubt the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre will be celebrating birthdays for many years to come.

Outrageously good fun for all the family.

Twelfth Night is being performed at various dates over the summer further information and tickets can be found here.