Songs for a New World – Upstairs at the Gatehouse

When you watch a musical production, it usually follows a known formula with a beginning, middle and an end. Not so with ‘Songs for a New World’ for this is what’s known as a song-cycle. That means rather than having one fully formed narrative, the show is an anthology; a collection of short stories that hang together with common themes.

For me, I think the best way to describe this production is as an immersive musical show. You honestly feel as though you’ve stepped into the making of a musical and are part and parcel of the actual show, such is the intimacy of this performance. The venue aids this feeling enormously, and to be seated just inches away from the action is a real thrill.

Unlike most shows, the band are not hidden away, they are clearly visible, on display and are integral to this musical extravaganza. The show features four singers (Christopher Cameron, Eleanore Frances, Lizzy Parker and Luke Walsh) who are all powerhouses of energy and talent, but if I had to pick a fave, Lizzy Parker’s beautiful vocals blew me away.

There’s fantastic chemistry between the cast and they exude pure joy to be performing. With shining eyes and clear, clean, strong voices you feel as though you’re being hugged. Imagine being part of a Disney movie – raw and live in front you – and this is it, it’s feel-good at its finest.

Jason Robert Brown (music and lyrics) has skillfully mastered the art of seamlessly transitioning one song to the next in such a way that it feels as though you are gliding, musically, on the wings of a story.

I was surprised to learn ‘Songs for a New World’ was first performed Off-Broadway in 1995, because it doesn’t feel like a show that’s almost three decades old. Likely that’s because the themes are universal and enduring – the search for happiness and fulfilment are not unique to any particular historical epoch. Director Kai Wright has also ensured it feels of the moment, and is as relevant today as what it was when first performed.

While the songs were new to me, they are the sort of songs (‘I’m not afraid of anything’, The world was dancing’, ‘Just one step’) where you find yourself tapping your foot, and humming along to. In fact, ‘The New World’ is a current ear worm of mine!

‘Songs for a new world’ is a musical lovers dream. It’s an uplifting show that makes you smile ear to ear and promises that life – no matter how hard – will get better.

Running Tuesday 4th February – Sunday 3rd March 2024, Upstairs at the Gatehouse

https://upstairsatthegatehouse.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173647540

Reviewer: Samantha Collett

Reviewed: 8th February 2024

North West End UK Rating: