The Time Traveller’s Wife: The Musical – Apollo Theatre

Based on the internationally best-selling novel, the romantically unconventional story, The Time Traveller’s Wife, opens as a new musical on the West End stage this Autumn. The story follows the life of Clare (Joanna Woodward), a talented artist and sculptor, who meets a remarkable man, Henry (David Hunter), who happens to travel through time, when she is a just a girl. Henry’s extraordinary genetic disorder allows him to pop up through the course of Clare’s life and eventually they fall in love, defying the unavoidable complications that a relationship involving time travel can bring.

From the moment the show opens with a bang and strobe lighting, it is clear that the turning set and effects will be a big factor in portraying the magic of this story. Immediately the screen in front of the stage is dynamic, and is utilised as a significant tool to assist the clarity of the storyline. Bold lighting and sound choices effectively create Henry’s snap into time and transitions between scenes, working well from an audience perspective. Henry’s disappearing on stage is creative and well executed, adding to the sense of illusion and elements of charm throughout the show.

The projections and animations designed by Andrzej Goulding are particularly striking and intricate, immensely aiding the production value of the show. Particularly in the opening of Act 2, in Hunter’s impressive performance of ‘Journeyman’, the animations are stunning and innovative, making for an unforgettable opening second act performance. The illusions created by Chris Fisher are slick and creative.

Though Clare and Henry’s love story feels a little rushed and at times alarming, Woodward and Hunter as leads are impeccable. Their chemistry as a couple is realistic and they do well to portray an innocent relationship as well as more mature and complex issues. Woodward has a lovely soft tone to her voice, but her powerful belt and riffs are where it truly shines. The number ‘I’m in Control’ shows off the grit and rocky growl layered in her voice. Paired with her facial acting, the moments where she allows her character to let go are particularly memorable. Moments where Clare and her younger self (Holly-Jade Roberts) harmonise are enchanting and powerful, Roberts’ consistency and accent work impressive. Hunter gives an authentic and humorous performance, paired with the buttery tone to his voice, his character is difficult to dislike and his performance faultless.

The comedic couple Gomez (Tim Mahendran) and Charisse (Hiba Elchikhe) bring joy and wit to the stage where moments of melancholy take over, both their humour well-timed and landing effortlessly. In ‘A Woman’s Intuition’, both have the opportunity to showcase their impressive vocal range and power, the rocky melody creating a welcome change of pace. During this number, the ensemble are a wonderful addition, each using the material they’re given throughout to the highest level.

While the melodies and musical choices of the songs are fitting with the feel of the show, the lyrics are often predictable, and the songs fail to leave a mark. The cast performances are notable, as well as the production value and aesthetic of the show. The concept of the story is somewhat flawed and outdated, and while a story of fiction, it causes some alarm to the idea of an adult man befriending a young girl and falling in love with her. However, as a surface-level indication of an unconventional marriage, powered by love and commitment, this show is a romantic depiction of strength through time.

The Time Traveller’s Wife is currently playing at the Apollo Theatre, with more information and tickets to be found at: https://timetravellerswife.com/

Reviewer: Maani Way

Reviewed: 2^nd November 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★