What began as slightly self-conscious soon developed into a showcase of joy for this young collection of enthusiasts. The premise was simple: a tavern with a collection of characters who told their stories through song and dance. It reminded me of Jim Cartwright’s TWO but the stories were somewhat thinner, each tale being bound by the lyrics of a particular song.
My favourite was the traditional Irish ballad, Aililiú Na Gamhna, sung by second-year, Lily Hodge. It was pitch-perfect and filled with tender anguish. The blocking enhanced the sentiment of the piece.
Ewan Robertson has a fine, sweet voice living within the body of a construction worker – tall, wide and muscular. He concluded the first half with a stunning lift of Elham Khosravipour who seemed anomalous in her belly-dancing outfit amid the waistcoated cast until her actual dance.
Jasper Fuller impressed with an amazing one-handed cartwheel carrying a walking stick and can high-kick like a professional. The choreography was, indeed, impressive. Well done Aaron Venter and Amrit Gill.
As ever, the musicians, being the support artists in all staged musicals, played superbly under the guiding hands of Sam Burgess.
Juliet Gentle and Tegan Taylor did a solid job on this production. It is their first time directing and it is a more demanding job than many appreciate. I suggest making sure every move has a reason. Some of the promenading amid the audience seemed aimless and simply a wish for variety, as did the disappearance of Dan J Bryant to reappear from a side door. But, perhaps, I’m being picky.
This show was a tad overlong for the premise of the play. However, it showcased a range of solid talent, enthusiasm, and commitment. Writing this, I am reminded of the joyful rendition of Hard To Be The Bard by Izzie Atkinson. It is, indeed, sometimes difficult to find just the right word.
The over-enthusiasm of the audience was tiresome. It indicates a lack of authenticity to whoop and holler at every single song and it smacks of being planted. Be careful of excess.
Reviewer: Kathleen Mansfield
Reviewed: 29th March 2025
North West End UK Rating:
Rating: 3 out of 5.
