2023 - Rachel Reviewed

Posted on December 16, 2023December 16, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

REVIEW: Stranger Sings – Southwark Playhouse

🎭 Stranger Sings
📍Southwark Playhouse – Borough
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jonathan Hogue’s award-winning parody musical, Stranger Sings, first made its way to London in 2022 at The Vaults. The musical has since gone on to entertain audiences on a U.K. tour and has returned to Southwark Playhouse for an alternative festive show!

Stranger Sings is a guaranteed evening of laughter – expect big hair, heavy 80s synths and a dancing Demogorgon! We are transported to season one of Stranger Things, joining the whole Hawkins Gang on a mission to find Will. We may even find #JusticeForBarb! The show also features cameos from characters in later seasons. While the show is sure to be popular with fans of the show, I don’t think it’s necessary to have watched all seasons (or any!) to enjoy and appreciate the musical.

Justin William’s set design is incredible and effortlessly portrays notable scenes from the series. We are seamlessly transported to the woods, to Joyce’s festive-lights living room and into the Upside Down. Alongside the great set design, Ellie Farrow’s costume design is so detailed, matching the characters perfectly. Clancy Flynn’s lighting and Richard Carter’s sound design worked well to enhance the eerie atmosphere.

Directed by Ellis Kerkhoven, the show is fast-paced, and brimming with jokes, all of which are hilariously timed. Stranger Sings features an impressive selection of original music, including classic 80s-inspired songs, upbeat pop tunes and even big 11 o’clock numbers. The score is exciting, and catchy with some of the most witty lyrics. I also loved how throughout the show, the writing constantly pokes fun at the decade and references iconic pop cultural moments from that era. Musical theatre fans may also spot the lyrical references from popular musicals.

Musical director, Olivia Zacharia leads the talented cast of 9, who are absolute stars. They showcased impressive multi-roleplaying, showing off their range by playing different characters. All the costume changes were seamlessly executed, never interrupting the flow of the show. The cast stayed true to the characters while adding their unique flair. Howard Jenkins gave a strong performance in the role of Jim Hopper, perfectly embodying the character with his mannerisms (that walk!) and their dry comic delivery. Verity Power is equally incredible as she perfectly encapsulates the chain-smoking, slightly manic character of Joyce. Power displayed an incredible vocal range in a spectacular song with surprise cameos, but also in their role as Will Byers (performed via puppet!)

Alfie Doohan was fantastic as Steve Harrington, Jonathan Byers and Dr Brenner – each role from Doohan had us laughing at how precise his portrayal was (and all those wigs!) Elliott Wooster, Jessie Jae Davis and William Shackleton perform as Mike, Lucas and Dustin, the beloved trio of friends. Shackleton was perfect as Dustin; paired with the baseball hat and lisp, Shackleton delivered strong vocals and hilarious characterisation in the role. Anna Amelia had the most gorgeous vocals and gave great performances as Nancy Wheeler and Eleven. Davis’ performance as the Demogorgon was an unexpected highlight, with catchy choreography by Lucinda Lawrence.

Philippa Leadbetter is a powerhouse in the role of Barb Holland – “the throwaway plot device character from season 1”. Leadbetter had the most impeccable comedic timing, and delivered a performance that can only be described as theatrical excellence! The cast is supported by two super swings, Ally Kennard and Shannon Bourne.

Hogue’s writing is clever and serves as a love letter to the 80s and one of the most popular TV series. As a Stranger Things fan, this musical has become one of my all-time favourites! It’s nostalgic, packed with hilarity and utter mayhem! The entire cast and creative team have put on a spectacular show, that I highly recommend!

Stranger Sings is playing at Southwark Playhouse until 6 January 2024, before continuing its UK tour.

Posted on December 15, 2023December 20, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

REVIEW: Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back – Southbank Centre

🎭 Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back
📍Purcell Room, Southbank Centre
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back at Southbank Centre is a cabaret stand-up comedy extravaganza that takes audiences on a journey through the life of this Australian sensation.

Through a blend of song, adult jokes and witty one-liners, Reuben shares the story of his upbringing as a young queer boy in Melbourne in this comedy performance. We also have an exploration of the nuanced relationships between father and sons.

Dubbed the Christopher Nolan of Cabaret, we are treated to exciting renditions of popular songs from The Rolling Stones, Geri Halliwell and Stormzy, sung wonderfully by Reuben. The bold use of lighting design creates a captivating atmosphere during the show. Those striking hues of red emphasise Reuben’s statement entrance as enters the stage, in a Marie Antoinette-inspired costume.

‘The Butch is Back’ takes us through various timelines of Reuben’s life. There is a myriad of adult content throughout, and even audience interaction, some of which was improvised and flowed well with the show.

Reuben’s quick-wit and great comic timing shine throughout Act 1, with fast-paced jokes about British politics and the monarchy. I initially struggled with the lack of linear structure in the first act, while Act 2 felt more cohesive. The show delves into relationships between fathers and sons, portraying Reuben’s journey from childhood to cabaret stardom. Reuben also acknowledges growing up queer and being a drag act.

Backed by a fantastic band led by musical director, Shannon D.Whitelock, the show seamlessly blends jazz, soul, and rock, which I adored. Kaye’s vocals and musical versatility were a standout and I couldn’t wait to hear more! Amidst the adult jokes and occasional audience interaction, I found that the music did incredibly well in enhancing the storytelling.

The show had a good balance between humour and serious moments, particularly in the second act as the show reveals vulnerable moments drawn from Reuben’s personal experiences. The honesty and authenticity displayed by Reuben, particularly in the childhood stories and memories of his father, contribute to a mesmerising performance.

While I think the show could benefit from being one act, the humour, raw emotion, glamorous outfits and Reuben’s natural stage presence, makes ‘The Butch is Back’ a must-see.

Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back is playing at Southbank Centre until 30 December 2023!

Posted on December 5, 2023December 16, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

REVIEW: Cinderella – Brixton House Theatre

🎭Cinderella
📍Brixton House
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐

Brixton House welcomes audiences to a reimagined Cinderella tale with a local twist by Danusia Samal!

The story

We meet Sindi-Ella (Yanexi Enriquez) a teenager who resides above a greengrocers her late father owned. Sindi is determined to keep the family business afloat – so determined she even grows various vegetables, fruit and plants in her room! Living with her bougie step-mum and step-sister, Sindi finds solace in conversations with her reliable ‘Delphy’ (Delphinium) plant and wonders how she can keep the business running amidst all the constant changes happening in Brixton…

One of those changes happens to be Charmz; a popular influencer and CEO of Flip Flop, a social media platform for teens, who aspires to buy out all local shops on Brixton Lane and build a ‘mega mall’. When Sindi meets Charmz, the pair have an undeniable connection and he invites her to his party…which happens to be on the same day as her greengrocers ‘rebrand’ event. With turmoil unfolding at home, can Sindi make the party? Perhaps her faithful houseplants can assist…

My thoughts

Set against a backdrop of lively beats and directed by Ola Ince, this Cinderella retelling is a unique adaption, that explores strong themes such as gentrification, family dynamics and loss. As a South Londoner, I enjoyed the authentic representation of Brixton during this production.

Amelia Jane Hankin’s set design impresses, with eye-catching elements that were split across two levels. It was a great depiction of a green grocers as well the Brixton Lane logo which was suspended above. Anna Watson’s lighting worked wonderfully to enhance that transformative ‘Cinderella’ moment towards the end of Act 1. It did feel quite magical, and I had hoped for more moments like this throughout.

Duramaney Kamara’s music shines throughout, with a brilliant mix of catchy garage-inspired songs, along with rap, pop, and reggae. Enriquez had such star quality; they delivered a strong performance and showed off beautiful vocals. Alex Thomas-Smith’s was captivating as Charmz, from the moment they entered the stage. They were quite literally shining, with a ring light propped behind them during all the ‘Flip Flop’ announcements. Like their characters, Enriquez and Thomas Smith showcased sweet, authentic chemistry, and I loved their songs (and choreography!) together.

Ray Emmett Brown played Delphy, the charismatic delphinium plant who also happened to be Sindi’s father. They provided us with laughter and I especially liked how he balanced the humorous moments with sensitive scenes later in the show. The cast is completed with Julene Robinson, who multi roles as Sindi’s step mum and a school friend. Step sister, Tia is played by Jesse Bateson who delivers great comedy as the influencer longing for West London – with a running joke that is her constantly insulting South London (ouch!).

While the cast maintained high spirits, I couldn’t help but feel the pacing was slower than expected, and some jokes fell flat. The show deviates from a traditional pantomime to the point where I wouldn’t quite define this as a panto. I wondered how the show would be received by younger audience members as I felt there was too much going on with the storyline and it became confusing. I felt the ‘fun’ factor fizzled out in Act 2. As I mentioned earlier, it would have been nice to have more lively, magical moments, something I associate with the original Cinderella. On the day I saw the show, there wasn’t much audience participation, and even when prompted, not many of the audience knew how to respond…

Despite this, I applaud this production for having a different take on Cinderella, with the inclusion of resonating themes such as navigating loss, the impact of gentrification and family dynamics. Samal’s writing sensitively explores all of this. With poignant scenes between the characters, fun, catchy selection of songs and an empowering ending, allowing for a happily ever after.

Cinderella is playing at Brixton House until 31st December 2023.

Posted on November 15, 2023December 16, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

REVIEW: The Woman in Black – Richmond Theatre

🎭 The Woman in Black
📍Richmond Theatre
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐

For over 33 years, The Woman in Black has captivated audiences and now embarks on a UK tour, heading to Richmond Theatre for a spooky evening of theatre!

The story

The Woman in Black has been adapted by Stephen Mallatratt from Susan Hill’s best-selling novel. The play follows the story of Arthur Kipps (Malcom James), a solicitor who becomes obsessed with a curse he believes has been cast upon his family by the spectral figure of the ‘Woman in Black.’ Arthur has drafted a manuscript of his story, and seeks help from an Actor (Mark Hawkins). Together, they perform the play, delving deeper into Arthur’s memories. As the story goes on, we watch as the lines between reality and make-believe begin to blur…

My thoughts

Malcolm James and Mark Hawkins delivered strong, engaging performances throughout the two-hander play. The duo’s flawless execution of multi-roleplaying showcased their theatrical prowess, and I enjoyed seeing the range of emotions displayed by the characters. Hawkins, in the role of The Actor, was convincing during the tense scenes, showcasing such authentic emotion and terror. Similarly, James delivered a great performance, particularly in Act 2, where we witness a more fearful and desperate Arthur Kripps.

Michael Holt’s set design was straightforward, with minimal props and mostly antique furniture that established the time era. I liked the use of the long white sheets as the backdrop, eventually unveiling other parts of the mysterious house. These simple design choices certainly created a haunting experience. Kevin Sleep’s warm vintage orange lighting added a nostalgic ambiance and played a crucial role in the scene transitions. I found this helpful as it allowed us to follow the character’s performances and distinguish the change in characters. The subtle yet impactful shadow work also enhanced the mysterious atmosphere.

Despite the commendable performances, some of the dialogue went unheard due to a lack of microphones (and the audience’s screams!). Act 1 had a cohesive narrative, whereas, by Act 2, the plot became confusing and relied on some predictable jumpscares. While I enjoyed the eerie and unexpected appearances from the ‘Woman in Black’, I found the pacing too slow, impacting my anticipated level of fear.

While the scare factor seemed underwhelming, The Woman in Black excels in its strong performances and atmospheric setting. It manages to engage audiences and feels like the ideal theatre show for these dark, winter evenings.

The Woman in Black plays at Richmond Theatre until Saturday 18 November 2023, before continuing its U.K. tour!

Posted on November 12, 2023December 16, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

REVIEW: Flip! – Soho Theatre

First published on Lost in Theatreland website.

🎭 Flip!
📍 Soho Theatre
🎟️ Gifted
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

FLIP! takes the audience on an exhilarating journey into the intricate world of social media, examining the ever-evolving digital world.

We meet Carleen and Crystal (Leah St Luce and Jadesola Odunjo), a content-creating duo and inseparable best friends, who desire to become famous influencers!

Their latest post pushes boundaries, but on FLIP!, a new social media platform, they find a second chance at fame and wealth. But what happens when morals are traded for engagements, likes, and reposts? Written by Racheal Ofori, FLIP! shows us the impact an ever-growing social platform has on ethics, compassion, and friendships.

St Luce and Odunjo are fantastic in their roles, delivering comical and high-energy performances. I adore their natural chemistry and the authenticity of the characters. They are quirky, fun honest…and so in sync, (shoutout to Aline David’s movement direction!) St Luce and Odunjo are brilliant comedic actors, but also wonderfully showcase the more emotive and vulnerable moments. I was also impressed with how the two seamlessly embodied multiple roles. As they portray a chorus of online users – some sharing compliments, others outrightly hating – the show delves into the nuances of influencer culture.

Emily Abaoud’s fast-paced direction pairs well with Ofori’s sharp script. Together, they create an exciting and engaging production that keeps the audience on their toes. I also enjoyed Abaoud’s direction mirroring the instantaneous nature of the online world. The absurd scenarios and parodies of real-life social channels made the audience cackle, adding an extra layer of humour to the show.

Ofori has cleverly portrayed the impact of our actions in the pursuit of validation. The characters exclaim, “Collect the cheques!” which prompts the audience to question the cost of chasing fame.

FLIP! is not only entertaining – it’s a timely and relevant piece that perfectly captures the essence of our digital age. The script offers thought-provoking commentary in a way that reminds me of the TV show, Black Mirror. Particularly with the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence in the story, Ofori has created a unique exploration into one of society’s hot topics.

With a witty script, slick direction, and strong performances, FLIP! is a hilarious and reflective show on the dilemmas of social media.

Flip! plays at Soho Theatre until 25 November 2023!

Posted on November 9, 2023December 16, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

REVIEW: Brenda’s Got A Baby – New Diorama Theatre

🎭 Brenda’s Got A Baby
📍New Diorama Theatre
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jessica Hagan’s new comedy play heads to New Diorama Theatre for an entertaining and insightful production on Black womanhood, sisterhood, motherhood and…babies!

The story

Following an unforeseen breakup with her long-term boyfriend, Dami (Jordan Duvigneau) and feeling constantly overshadowed by her happily married younger sister, 29-year old Ama (Anita Uwajeh) sets out on a quest to embrace motherhood. Ama has made great achievements including securing her own home and a successful career, but as she approaches her late twenties, she believes the missing piece in her life is a child.

Ama navigates a rollercoaster ride that includes grappling with a shortage of available Black sperm donors, confronting a racially biased healthcare system, and dealing with her own demanding family. Still, Ama charges ahead with determination. Along the way, she finds herself entangled in awkward encounters, even more awkward conversations and defiant decisions. With the clock ticking, Ama’s sense of urgency only intensifies.

My thoughts

The show opens with sisters, Ama and Jade (Jahmila Heath), as Ama delivers a scathing commentary on a peer’s fifth pregnancy. Together, the two light up the stage with their quick wit and humour, setting the tone for the show. As they listed all the societal pressures and expectations they were told as teenagers, I enjoyed watching their convincing sisterly bond. The show featured pop cultural and TV references, including a notable scene from The Real Housewives of Atlanta. While this had the audience immediately engaged, with some even reciting the scene, I found this to be a smart foreshadowing technique for the events to come.

Brenda’s Got A Baby was jam-packed with jokes that had the audience in constantly laughing. Hagan’s script is razor-sharp, witty and performed wonderfully by the cast of 5. Whether it was Dami’s audacious attitude, Jade’s innocence or Skippy’s (Edward Kagutuzi) naive but charming nature, I found the characters incredibly fun to watch. They had such natural chemistry and charisma throughout.

Michelle Asante gave a strong performance as Ama’s mum, with the exaggerated facial expressions and hilariously outlandish remarks. I couldn’t help but wonder how this character was so identical to my own Ghanaian mother (bravo to the team!) The infusion of the Ghanaian dialect, Twi, added to her character’s charm. Anita-Joy was utterly brilliant in the role of Ama and displayed great stage presence. The character’s overly sarcastic demeanor worked well with Uwajeh’s seamless comedic timing. Among the hilarity, I adored the poignant scene between Asante and Uwajeh as they portrayed a beautiful, mother-daughter bond.

The jigsaw set design by TK Hay added a colourful and playful dimension to the story, reflecting Ama’s vibrant dynamics of her family, but also the inner thoughts of her fragmented life. As Act 2 peeled back the layers of Ama’s vulnerability, we also learn more about her younger sister, Jade’s, health. I wished this particular scene wasn’t so hysterical between the characters. Though various revelations come to light, Jade’s announcement felt hurried. This would have been a significant plot to the story and further discussion into black women and healthcare.

Khalil Madovi provided subtle shifts in sound whenever babies and marriage were mentioned to Ama. This conveyed a strong sense of isolation, a theme that unfolds throughout the play. Anastasia Osei-Kuffour’s direction paired incredibly well with Madovi’s distorted sound design, both effectively mirroring the disjointed pieces of Ama’s life. The relentless (and literal!) countdown, symbolizing a ticking body clock further added to her desperation. It’s quite a tough experience to watch as Ama frantically paces around the stage, undergoing questionable actions. Osei-Kuffour skillfully balances between the playful direction in Act 1 to the sombre Act 2, where coercive cracks begin to surface.

I appreciated the show for addressing the societal pressures women face. But also acknowledging the issues within black women’s maternal care and health, with the inclusion of statistics that I wasn’t even aware of! Jessica Hagan is a talented writer, and cleverly blends satire with sensitivity, ensuring that the humorous moments do not overshadow the serious undertones.

Brenda’s Got A Baby is a brilliant production, offering constant laughter, thought-provoking themes, and a cast that delivers a marvellous performance!

Brenda’s Got A Baby plays at New Diorama Theatre until 2 December 2023.

Access performances:

Captioned: Wednesday 22 November 2023 – 7:30pm

Relaxed: Thursday 16 November 2023 – 7:30pm

Babes-in-Arms: Thursday 16 & Thursday 30 November – 2pm

Posted on November 4, 2023December 16, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

NEWS: Sister Act The Musical Wins 2023 London Lifestyle Awards for Theatre Show of the Year!

Running for the 13th year, the London Lifestyle Awards celebrates one of the greatest cities in the world, and the businesses that contribute to it. The ceremony took place on Monday, October 30th, 2023 at the glamorous Grosvenor House on Park Lane.

The annual awards span various categories, including restaurants, bars, hotels, hair and beauty, and, of course, theatre. Sister Act The Musical won the Theatre Show of the Year Award at the London Lifestyle Awards 2023.

The competition was fierce, with a closely contested shortlist featuring some of the most remarkable shows from the past year!

The Theatre Show of the Year TOPTEN shortlist included the following popular theatre shows: 2:22 A Ghost Story, A Streetcar Named Desire, Dirty Dancing, Guys & Dolls, Legally Blonde, My Neighbour Totoro, My Son’s a Queer, SIX the Musical, and The Drifters Girl.

Emerging West End star, Tobias Turley, represented by BBA Management, dazzled the audience with his rendition of ABBA’s “Does Your Mother Know.” Turley is currently competing on ITV’s Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream and was one of the many talented performers who graced the stage. Guests also enjoyed captivating musical performances by opera superstar Lucy Kay and Ben Haenow and his band.

Jason Gale, founder of London Lifestyle Awards®, expressed his enthusiasm for Sister Act The Musical’s well-deserved win, describing it as a “feel-good gospel hit” brimming with heart. He highlighted the exceptional quality of theatre available to London audiences and extended a warm welcome to Sister Act for its return to the capital city in Spring 2024.

Congratulations to all the shortlisted nominees and the winners!

For more, please visit www.britishlifestyleawards.com/London

Posted on October 5, 2023October 8, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

The Stage Debut Awards 2023

On Sunday 1st October 2023, I attended The Stage Debut Awards. The Debut Awards highlight breakthrough actors, writers, directors, designers, composers/lyricists across 8 categories.

I had the amazing opportunity to meet the award nominees, guest performers, and hosts. I loved speaking with them, learning about their journey & their excitement to be part of this joyous ceremony!

Here are my interviews from the evening:

Emily Benjamin – Guest performer, Alternate Sally Bowles in Cabaret

How does it feel to be at The Stage Debut Awards?
Emily: It’s really fun! I keep looking around, recognising all the people I’ve been fans of for years of my life – because I’m stagey. I’m performing at the same event that Rachel Wooden is performing at! I used to listen to her when I was a teen – I think she’s incredible!

How does it feel to be a part of Cabaret?
Emily: It’s hugely important! I’m so thankful to get to tell a story, that’s scarily relevant in today’s world. The director, Rebecca Frecknall, said very early on, that to make dangerous work, we had to create a safe environment. Building this show is both dangerous and incredibly beautiful. I couldn’t be more thankful to be part of it!

What are you looking forward to in 2024?
Emily: I’m starring in a new musical called Bronco Billy at Charing Cross Theatre, that opens in January! I’m looking forward to telling a new story and reaching a new group of people.

Last question – what’s your favourite ever musical?
Emily: The Last 5 Years – Jason Robert Brown!

Bukky Bakray – Nominee for Best Performer in a Play for Sleepova at Bush Theatre

How does it feel to be nominated?
Bukky: It’s nice, I feel humbled. It was mad to be in the theatre, as I’m not training, so to be nominated with so many incredible people – I just feel really humbled!

How was the whole experience working on ‘Sleepova’?
Bukky: It was everything I would have hoped it to be. I feel like that was because it was at the Bush [Theatre]. I’m really grateful to have a debut at that theatre. Everyone was really cool, beautiful environment!

What are you looking forward to this evening?
Bukky: I’m with Kosar Ali. We started all of this together and she also had a debut play this year. It’s nice to share this experience with her.

Elan Davies – Nominee for Best Performer in a Play in Imrie at Sherman Theatre

How does it feel to be at The Stage Debut Awards?
Elan: It’s been so cool. It’s nice to be recognised. I’m at the beginning of my career. It’s cool to be in a room with people I look up to.

Can you tell us more about ‘Imrie’?
Elan: It’s a fully Welsh language play in Cardiff, then it toured Wales. It’s about two teenagers growing up during that transitional period where you go from teenagers to adults. Both characters feel othered in two different senses; my co-star, Rebecca Wilson, figuring out her queer identity, and my character figuring out her mixed-race roots. It was all performed in the Welsh language, which was really cool.

I wanted to go on to this project as I’d never read anything like this in the Welsh language. It platformed voices that aren’t necessarily platformed at the moment in Welsh.

Elan Davies went on to win the Best Performer in a Play award!

Congratulations! How were you feeling, in the moment, when your name was announced?
Elan: I was crying with no tears! (laughs) It was a heave of exasperation, joy, gratitude, and a lot of emotions! I was surrounded by my family, which was the best thing about it.

I had an unconventional entrance into the industry. I left school at 17 and started working and getting into the room as much as I could. I’m still at the beginning, but it’s a massive thing to be recognised at this stage!

Emily Ling Williams – Director of A Playlist for the Revolution at Bush Theatre

What did it mean to be part of ‘A Playlist for the Revolution’?
Emily: It was incredible – one of the best experiences of my life. I worked with AJ Yi from the start. The creative team, and the actors, all coming together and making the show was really exciting! And telling a story with an all-Asian cast, about something political and also something beautiful, fun, a human story. It embraced music, love and happiness – it was such a joyful experience from beginning to end.

Myself, AJ and the designer were all working collaboratively – AJ and I were raised on rom-coms so we wanted to make it as romantic as possible! Bush Theatre was incredible. The team were amazing. I don’t think you could have a better debut show experience. They were kind and supportive from the get-go – it was a dream!

Emily Ling Williams went on to win the Best Director award!

Congratulations! How did it feel when your name was announced?
Emily: Unbelievable! I was so shocked! When they said “Hong Kong”, I was like ‘what?!’.

How are you going to celebrate?
Emily: Champagne, enjoy my dessert, tell my mum!

I’m so happy for you! Do you have any advice for aspiring directors?
Emily: I came up through the Young Vic. I applied for an Introduction to Directing course at Young Vic. It was a free 2-week course. They supported me and helped with my first and second jobs in theatre. They’ve been amazing! Find those courses and theatres that are helping Directors – just apply and see!

And shout to the Bush Theatre!
Emily: Shout out to Bush Theatre – they take a chance on people. Lynette and Dan, the whole team are incredible. They give you the opportunity to make a great show!

The Winners in Full:

Best Performer in a Play (Sponsored by Cabbells):

● Elan Davies for Imrie at Sherman Theatre, Cardiff

● Isobel Thom for I, Joan at Shakespeare’s Globe, London

Best Performer in a Musical (Sponsored by Carnival Cruise Line):

● Jessica Lee for Miss Saigon at Crucible Theatre, Sheffield

Best Director: (Sponsored by Arts Council England)

● Emily Ling Williams for A Playlist for the Revolution at Bush Theatre, London

Best Designer (Sponsored by Wimbledon College of Arts, UAL):

● Andrea Scott (video) for My Neighbour Totoro at Barbican Theatre, London

Best Writer (Sponsored by Sonia Friedman Productions):

● Anoushka Lucas for Elephant at Bush Theatre, London

Best Composer, Lyricist or Book Writer (Sponsored by Crossroads Live):

● Michael R Jackson for A Strange Loop at Barbican Theatre, London

Best West End Debut Performer (Sponsored by TodayTix)

● Rose Ayling-Ellis for As You Like It at @sohoplace

Best Creative West End Debut: (Sponsored by Trafalgar Entertainment)

● Tingying Dong (sound designer) for The Crucible at National Theatre and Gielgud Theatre

● Rob Madge (writer) for My Son’s a Queer, (But What Can You Do?) at Garrick Theatre and Ambassadors Theatre

Posted on August 17, 2023August 19, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

Theater Camp – Film Review

🎬 Theater Camp
📍Picturehouse Central
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

If there’s a camp I want to go to, it’s AdirondACTS!

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of attending a special screening of the film, Theater Camp.

Written and directed by Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman, Ben Platt and Noah Galvin, Theater Camp, is a satirical comedy film following the drama at a theatre camp in upstate New York. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, nostalgic, and amazingly wholesome.

As summer comes around, children begin preparing for their annual visit to AdirondACTS, the theatre camp for aspiring performers. When Joan, the beloved founder of the camp, falls into a coma, it’s down to her ‘entrepreneurial’ son, Troy (Jimmy Tatro), to help keep the camp afloat. A dilemma arises when Troy discovers the camp is facing bankruptcy. Clueless about the theatrical world, Troy works together with the eccentric teachers and campers to find a way to save the camp.

The film follows a ‘mockumentary’ style, capturing all the events across the camp as they all prepare for the original musical. I loved this format as it made the scenes more relatable and suited the style of humour. It’s incredibly satirical, reminding me of hit TV shows, The Office and Abbott Elementary. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the scenes were improvisation too! The cast shone throughout with their sharp wit and comedic timing. The younger members of the cast were also impressive, and I loved seeing their over-dramatic characterisation of ‘theatre kids’.

My favourite scene was the montage of the lessons taking place across the camp. Costume, drama, stage management – and whatever class the unqualified teacher would attempt. Notable mention to Ayo Edebiri, for the deadpan humour in the role of a teacher who lied on their CV.

Ben Platt and Molly Gordon star as Amos and Rebecca-Diane, Head of Drama and Music teachers at the camp. Described as ‘artistically linked’ best friends, I enjoyed how the film explored their quirky friendship and the changing dynamic. Platt and Gordon were fantastic and displayed great (and funny) chemistry.

The script is packed with jokes, and while the storyline felt a bit predictable, the message conveyed was wholesome. All throughout, we witness how accepting the theatre camp is. The safe and welcoming hub it provides for the campers and the staff. The character arc of Glenn (Noah Galvin) was so heartwarming and perfectly embodied that supportive, affirming theatre spirit! Even with all the tender moments throughout the finale, as the children sing ‘Camp is Home’, I still found myself giggling at the credit scenes

This is a film that certainly resonates with me. Theater Camp is a genuine, hilarious, and light-hearted film that has beautifully shown what theatre means to people.

Theater Camp opens in UK cinemas on August 25th! You can find out more information about the film at https://www.searchlightpictures.com/theater-camp/

Posted on August 17, 2023August 17, 2023 by rachelagyefron — Leave a comment

Chips and Ice Cream – Camden Fringe

🎭 Chips and Ice Cream
📍 Camden People’s Theatre (Camden Fringe)
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Martyn Hodge’s Chips and Ice Cream explores parenthood, masculinity and intergenerational struggles in this fast-paced one-man show.

The story

Chips and Ice Cream provides a glimpse into the life of Stevie, a young, working-class man from Glasgow, as he navigates the challenges of raising his son, Charlie, to the best of his ability. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a therapy session, where Stevie exudes brash energy and sharp-witted humour. Plus a clear sign of defensiveness, which could only hint at his inner turmoil. The play entwines Stevie’s memories, moving between his journey as a father and the complex layers of his past.

My thoughts

Written and performed by Hodge, the script thoroughly unveils Stevie’s journey. He is a complicated character, who is coming to terms with his traumatic childhood with an alcoholic and abusive dad.

As we witness his love and care for Charlie – whether it’s rescuing “hamsters” together or indulging in McDonald’s – we’re also shown harrowing moments of anger that mirror Stevie’s upbringing. The switch between these scenes was quick, yet nicely portrayed through Hodge’s physical performance as well as the use of lighting, which worked well in guiding the audience through Stevie’s story.

In a playful scene where Hodge covers the stage with a collection of children’s toys, I was initially unsure whether this flashback was Stevie’s childhood. But on reflection, this could easily allude to the shared experiences with his son, Charlie. I enjoyed the verbatim elements, which further explored the social and financial pressures Stevie faced, and also Charlie’s bad behaviour at school.

Under the direction of Michael Abubakar, the show is fast-paced, perfectly matching the intensity of Hodge’s performance. Even with the bare set design, Hodge held our attention with their captivating and passionate stage presence.

Described as a comedy-drama, Chips and Ice Cream covers strong themes such as aggressive parenting, toxic masculinity, and the ripple effects of generational trauma. While there were elements of humour, the play remains a heavy and emotional story that I fully appreciated.

Chips and Ice Cream played at Camden Fringe on 8 and 14 August 2023.

Year: 2023

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