The meaning of syncopated is explained at the end, tho perhaps more sensible if used to introduce the play, the simplest definition being ‘a variety of rhythms’. There is also a question of balance: between a present day brief encounter and the story of the Southern Syncopated Orchestra, who brought jazz from America to the UK back in 1919. And it is a fascinating story; they enjoyed remarkable success, playing all over the country, including Buckingham Palace. But… Boy meets girl, boy annoys the hell out of girl (he’s a Londoner apart from anything else… boy asks for her help to compose a musical. Unfortunately, rather a contrived framing, not helped by being delivered in epistolatory style: after Frank from the Orchestra meets Liver Bird Penny, he sends her letters describing events – but has not provided a return address. And yet, although not far off ghosting, she religiously responds, writing letters she cannot send. They do however also provide insight into what was happening in Liverpool, that things rarely seem to change, let alone improve (race riots etc). There are quite a few other reasons to nitpick, from wandering accents to wondering how they can manage to write on thin paper balanced on the knee. All of this is sadly distracting, and a lot of tell rather than show. Then in one scene where drama does kick in, although the sound effects of storm and roaring seas are amazing, they are not matched by the somewhat clumsy action.
On to the good stuff: in the main, the passionate twosome who bring it to life: Teddy Oyediran as Her/Penny and Joseph Munroe-Robinson as HI/Frank. He also plays a mean saxophone, riffs sprinkled enticingly throughout.
It all starts on the waterfront, in a plain setting of two benches, with other props placed at intervals around the stage, such as a desk and chair, with a radio which is switched on and off, static being used to indicate a flashback. Despite an unpromising start because He has pinched Her seat, they start chatting. Turns out, he is a student who wants to write a musical, and he has a cracking idea but no idea what to do with it. This is where she comes in, and using role play, with judicious questions, queries and costume changes, the story begins to evolve. Similarly, by the end, we have learned more about Her, while she learns to have a better idea of what direction she should take, and how to make the most of opportunities no matter where they present themselves. What is not so apparent is the romantic angle: this meeting is meant to be the start of something big. That said, the focus being other than romance may be seen as refreshing.
It is an extremely interesting slice of History, and a tale which needs to be told, making you want to find out more. However, although a lively, resonating play, this may not be the most effective method of storytelling
Reviewer: Carole Baldock
Reviewed: 25th September 2025
North West End UK Rating: