The ever-changing stage characterises the re-imagination of this classic Musical Theatre fable - fresh, modern and engaging in a new technological age. Marcia Wallace stuns as Adelaide bringing humour, power and class to the role and a relatable quality that leaves the audience enamoured. A star-studded cast captures the comedy and iconic sequences of the beloved 50s show. As an immersive ticket holder, I was stunned at the quality of the performance and moving about the auditorium did not feel like a hassle or chore as one would expect instead a brimming excitement for the next moment in Nicholas Hynter’s ‘biggest gamble’.
Notably, Cedric Neal’s- Nicely Nicely Johnson- rendition of ‘Sit Down You’re Rocking The Boat’ left the audience in the palm of his hand as it rolled into the 3rd well deserved encore. The simplistic set design made all transitions seamless and the stagehands- dressed as period policemen- worked tirelessly sheaparding the audience this way and that to not detract from the scene changes into a new stage configuration. Of course, some elbows did inevitably come out, but it was mainly minimal and resolved hastily.
With an audience blending all ages, Madoc Jones aged 17 described the show as "perfect and feel-good" leaving "a huge smile on my face".
With strong performances from all leads and a powerful ensemble, Hynters wager has most certainly paid off. This rendition will live in the history books as all generations flock to see the spectacle, beloved by all, re-imagined in the most engaging and effective way. A must-see show!
