Bugsy Malone – Liverpool Empire

Bugsy Malone tells the story of a battle for power between Fat Sam & Dandy Dan based in New York City. Its story is loosely taken from gang events during the Prohibition era but this musical changes ‘machine guns’ for ‘splurge guns’ in order to make it more appropriate for family friendly audiences mixing in slapstick musical comedy whilst following the storyline of Bugsy and his new love Blousey alongside the hilarious chaos. Bugsy Malone is taking a Charleston Step out on tour for the very first time, touring the UK following its Christmas Season at Alexandra Palace in London treating audiences to this energetic revival of the acclaimed Lyric Hammersmith Theatre production. It’s a production that showcases both child and adult actors and they do deliver with a BANG (and a crack of the knuckles).

Firstly, it has to be said that the pace of this musical is PERFECT – and a lot of the times this is biggest downfall I have noticed in productions. It is quick, dynamic and animated and really keeps the attention and engagement of the younger (and some older) audience members. Drew Mconie’s choreography really packs a punch, and the staging of the routines is eye-catching with slick transitions. Personal highlights include ‘So You Wanna’ Be A Boxer’ and ‘My Name Is Tallulah’ which both showed Mconie’s stylistic approach to choreography and helped the characterisation of the ensemble. I loved the use of percussive vocalisation into ‘So You Wanna’ Be A Boxer’ I really through this was inventive and current. Jon Bausor shows a beautiful set that transitions well around Fat Sam’s Grand Slam and it fills the stage in a captivating way, complimented by Philip Gladwell’s lighting design throughout – especially the strobing at the end of Act 1 and the ‘photograph flashes’. It is great to see the creative team fitting well with one another throughout.

Credit to Alicia Belgarde who confidently plays the role of Tallulah – showing a flirtatious and playful characterisation that still remains PG and compliments Bugsy well. I had wondered how the dynamic of Child and Adult performers would sit in this context but it is believable and enjoyable. Marcus Billany plays Knuckles and really brings the light hearted comedy to the scenes – giving hints of Frank Spencer. But, the stand out performance of the production is Blousey played by Delilah Bennett-Cardy. She produces a mature, convincing and strong portrayal of the character matched with elegant vocals. I checked the programme several times to check if she was part of the Adult Cast due to her stage presence and professionalism. I have no doubt this young lady has a bright future ahead of her in musical theatre. It would be interesting to see this production with different child performers taking on their roles to see their approaches to the characters. However, the cast should all be commended on their articulation of speech throughout which was clear and crisp – although there was some stumbling of lines from younger cast members but nothing that breaks the flow too drastically. It was great to see the production finishing off with a burst of enthusiasm from all cast members that brought the Liverpool Empire Theatre on their feet for a well deserved round of applause.

Overall, Bugsy Malone is packed with a splurge of energy that keeps you engaged in the story and laughing along – they’ve got it just right and do Alan Parker’s movie justice. Bugsy Malone is in Liverpool until 11th February before finding its final home at Chichester Festival Theatre – catch it whilst you can otherwise you’ll be an ‘Ordinary Fool’. https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/bugsy-malone/liverpool-empire/

Reviewer: Daniel Cox

Reviewed: 6th February 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★