“Good is something you do, not what you talk about”.
A new musical based on the true story of a heroic conspiracy to rescue children from fascist Italy by bicycle, Glory Ride a tale of passion, friendship, grief and pride. The plot centres around the beloved Italian athlete Gino Bartali (Josh St. Clair), an Italian household name, who cycled across European countries delivering edited identity cards to fugitives to save their lives.
Written by Victoria and Todd Buchholz and directed by Olivier-winner Kelly Devine, this production has been developed through workshops in New York and Los Angeles and a staged concert at The Other Palace in London last year.
The set is dimly lit and has a sombre feel to it, setting the scene for Italy in 1935, depicting the tone of the musical and the important and serious subjects it deals with. Lighting and projections are a vital part to this show and in telling the story, the use of headlights at one stage which roam around the audience particularly effective in creating a tense atmosphere. The staging is impressive in this full production, key pieces such as the church arches are used and ensure swift scene changes. A rotating stage floor is used effectively during Gino’s cycling scenes, however, there is potential for it to be used more widely throughout the performance. The theatre was used to its full capacity, the cast often walking through the audience in character, creating an ominous feeling amongst audience members.
Josh St. Clair portrays the glorified Gino Bartali impeccably, his voice controlled yet powerful, encapsulating the emotion and tone of the show. The duet between Gino and Adriana (Amy Di Bartolomeo), ‘I Never Learned to Say Goodbye’ was both emotional and powerful, their harmonies perfectly balanced. Another duet highlight was the number ‘They Call Us Silent’, sung by Nico (Daniel Robinson) and Lorenzo (Loris Scarpa), an unlikely pairing, which was beautifully moving. Any duet or ensemble piece between the cast members is incredibly special, faultless harmonies creating magical moments. However, an unforgettable moment of both acts was Adriana’s solo “Promises”. Di Bartolomeo’s belt, tone and delivery was effortlessly emotional and compelling, initiating a standing ovation.
The material is well-written and the score well-rounded, however, for such a diverse and creative cast, there are not huge moments to shine as the material does not lend itself to be moulded and the cast are sometimes held back in reaching their full potential. The show is easy to follow, and the story is investable, but there is scope to expand on some parts of the story which are more heartfelt. For example, Gino’s origin story and his love of cycling, the passing of his brother and handling his grief, his relationship with his family following their loss and perhaps most importantly, Gino’s relationship with his friend turned Major, Mario Carita (Fed Zanni). There is a focus on how war changes people, and the conflict of doing the right thing versus going against the grain. This can be expanded upon in order to further emphasise the important historical issues and high emotions of the Second World War and the fight for freedom.
Glory Ride is currently playing for a limited run at Charing Cross Theatre until 29th July 2023. Tickets can be purchased from https://charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/theatre/glory-ride
Reviewer: Maani Way
Reviewed: 1st May 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★