Bonnie & Clyde,” performed by PADOS (Prestwich Amateur Dramatics and Operatic Society), is a thrilling ride through the tumultuous lives of America’s most notorious outlaw couple. With a haunting score by Frank Wildhorn and a gripping book by Ivan Menchell, this musical adaptation brings the tragic love story of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow to the stage with passion and intensity.
The cast of “Bonnie & Clyde,” all non-professionals, deliver powerhouse performances that captivate from start to finish. Both leads, Matt McGoldrick as Clyde and Izzi Smith as Bonnie showcase impressive vocal prowess and emotional depth. However, while the singing soars, there are moments when the acting doesn’t quite reach the same level of excellence. Some performances feel slightly disconnected or lacking in authenticity, which can momentarily detract from the overall impact of the production.
One drawback of the performance was that at times the music was too loud, drowning out the singers and making it difficult to hear their powerful voices. Additionally, lighting proved to be an issue, with spotlights not always hitting their targets. While some cast members intuitively moved into the spotlight to ensure they could be seen, others sadly didn’t, resulting in moments where the audience couldn’t fully appreciate their performances.
Nevertheless, the chemistry between the leads is electric, drawing the audience into their dangerous world with each stolen glance and whispered promise. The portrayal of Bonnie and Clyde as complex individuals, driven by love and desperation, adds depth to their characters and makes their inevitable downfall all the more poignant.
The music of “Bonnie & Clyde” is both stirring and haunting, with memorable melodies that linger long after the final curtain falls. From rousing anthems like “This World Will Remember Me” to tender ballads like “Dyin’ Ain’t So Bad,” the score perfectly captures the spirit of the era while conveying the emotional turmoil of its protagonists.
The staging of “Bonnie & Clyde” by PADOS was smart, quite often productions can be overbearing with props, but this felt somewhat minimalist, yet effective. Despite the technical challenges, the production succeeds in transporting the audience to another time and place, evoking the atmosphere of the Great Depression with striking visuals and compelling performances.
Overall, “Bonnie & Clyde” by PADOS is a gripping musical that combines romance, tragedy, and intrigue into a compelling theatrical experience. With its stellar vocal performances, memorable score, and thought-provoking themes, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences long after they leave the theatre. Whether you’re a fan of musical theatre or simply looking for a night of riveting entertainment, “Bonnie & Clyde” by PADOS is not to be missed.
Bonnie & Clyde plays The Met in Bury until 27th April. For tickets and more information, please visit https://themet.org.uk/event/bonnie-clyde/
Reviewer: Brian Madden
Reviewed: 24th April 2024
North West End UK Rating: