Coming Home – Hope Street Theatre

Tonight, at Hope Street Theatre, Change the Act group present ‘Coming Home- Theatre unplugged’. This is a show inspired by producer and performer Callum O’Rourke’s own experience, and it explores the meaning of ‘home’.

The show has been broken up into sections where songs are performed based on a wider theme such relationships, both positive and complicated, hope, love, loss and many more.

It is not surprising to hear that the 6 cast members have been hand-picked from 100 auditionees as the talent, vocal range and entertainment value of this group knows no limits.  Whether performing as soloist, duets, or a full company number, these talented singers belted perfection at every opportunity.

It goes without saying that there are certainly no weak links within this cast and the success of this show is heavily supported by that fact. Not long into the performance, Samantha Cottrell stuns the audience with her moving and beautiful rendition of ‘what baking can do’ from Waitress the musical. Wow- what a voice! Samantha has an absolute raw gift, and you can feel the goosebumps while watching the big notes and passion stand loud and proud. Don’t hold back Samantha – you are incredible and an absolute joy to listen to all night.

Further showstoppers in the first act came from Harriette Mullen and Frankee Mae who first came to life with their memorable rendition of ‘Take Me or Leave Me” from Rent. This cast also bravely took on songs from ‘Hamilton’ which was no mean feat given the complexity of styles within that musical. This proved no difficulty for the wonderful Ross Brodie who effortlessly gave us ‘You’ll be back’ and the brave Harriette Mullen who took the lead in ‘Satisfied’ supported by her fellow cast members.

Most of the songs chosen will pull on the heart strings but it was wonderful to also add lots of humorous numbers. Ross Brodie and Frankee Mae play the perfect couple in turmoil with their funny duet and similarly Lauren Heywood and Callum O’Rourke’s ‘You but Mostly Me’ from The Book of Morman made the audience laugh from the get-go. I was particularly impressed by Lauren’s solo rendition of ‘Ideal world’ from one of my all-time favourite musicals ‘Made in Dagenham’. It was wonderful to hear less known but incredible songs brought to the fore and performed superbly.

This cast is very diverse and have such a dynamic range which adds lots of layers to the entertainment value of this show. Frankee’s vocals have a depth and uniqueness like no other while Harriette’s brings all the jazzy tones and Lauren’s vocals have a stunning calmness. Similarly, Ross is a hugely vibrant performer who can tackle any song with ease. Callum’s vocals were both tender and beautiful and Samantha’s rawness left the audience always wanting more. There was a clear chemistry between the cast and their informal introductions in between songs added to the intimacy of the evening.

The cast are expertly accompanied by a single piano player who smoothly played and supported the cast all night, punching out song upon song without a break. And where would he be without his trusty sidekick, the page turner?! All of these people make the show possible.

A huge congratulations to all of the creators including director, Caitlin Clough, musical director, Samantha Cottrell, and producer Callum O’Rourke as well as the wider sound, lighting and whole production team. ‘Coming Home- Theatre unplugged’ continues tonight at Hope Street Theatre, for more information please visit http://hopestreettheatre.com/

Reviewer Blathine Maguire

Reviewed: 4^th March 2022

North west End UK Rating: ★★★★★