Theatre Review: 42nd Street, Bristol Hippodrome
Summary
Rating: ★★★
Running Dates: Monday 31st July - Saturday 5th August
Where to see it: Bristol Hippodrome
Duration: 2 hours 35 minutes (including interval)
Keywords: Timeless, dazzling, uplifting
Photo by Johan Persson
Review
42nd Street really is a timeless production! The show dates back to 1980, winning awards when it debuted on Broadway, and now we’re lucky enough to have it here in Bristol.
If you’re looking for a famous face, you won’t fall short with this production. Soap star Samantha Womack, game-show legend Les Dennis and pop sensation, Faye Tozer, make up a portion of this impressive cast!
Each cast member brings something different to the table. Naturally, Womack gives an incredible performance and falls easily into a Southern American accent. Dennis and Tozer form a comedy duo and hit the mark with their comedic timing and physicality.
As for the rest of the cast, each delivers an upbeat and energetic performance. The show is renowned for its breathtaking tap dance routines with very little rest in between! Although the performance must be exhausting, no cast member will let that show. Instead, each beat is hit with vibrancy, enthusiasm and bright smiles.
Photo by Johan Persson
Act One sets the scene with an impressive use of projection which I haven’t previously seen in the theatre. We are transported to the studio of infamous director, Julian Marsh, and we meet bright-eyed performers, eager for a spot in the promising Broadway show, Pretty Lady.
Yep, that’s right! We have a show within a show! This dynamic is navigated cleverly as the two shows are intertwined, leaving you wondering whether the cast is talking to you or the audience of ‘Pretty Lady’.
One of the leading ladies, Peggy Sawyer, is played by Nicole-Lily Baisden. Peggy Sawyer is a fresh performer looking for her big break in Marsh’s production. Despite having little experience, her talent is evident from the outset. Interestingly, Baisden may not have an extensive list of theatre credits, but, much like Peggy, her talent shines through!
Act Two opens with a panicked cast and crew, as it becomes possible that Pretty Lady cannot continue. At this point, we see strong characters and even stronger dance numbers! Unlikely friendships blossom, the team pulls together and, of course, we have a happy ending.
The set design is simplistic yet effective. Marsh’s studio is dimly lit and plain, in stark contrast to the Broadway stage which is bright and full of glitz and glam! Despite the simplistic set design, there is always something on stage to look at, even between scenes. When combined, the design is truly immersive and we feel as if we’re in an authentic 1930s show.
Photo by Johan Persson
For those who love big dance numbers and impressive vocals, whilst also valuing the power of a good story, this performance is one to watch.
The show is running until the 5th of August so grab your ticket soon!
Standout Quote or Moment: Performances of Shuffle Off to Buffalo or About a Quarter to Nine!
See If: You get caught out by the trick in the interval…
Similar Plays: My Fair Lady, Cabaret, Moulin Rouge.
Last Impression: A clever performance full of juxtaposition and bursting at the seams with talent!
Written by Chelsea Bartlett