Bonnie and Clyde The Musical has hit the West End with a bang, and it’s no surprise why! The show follows the infamous duo Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow as they embark on a crime spree across America in the 1930s, with law enforcement hot on their heels. The story is brought to life by the talented cast, including the return of stars Frances Mayli McCann and Jordan Luke Gage as the titular pair.
The standout performances in this production come from McCann and Gage, who bring energy and chemistry to their roles, perfectly capturing the reckless spirit of Bonnie and Clyde. McCann’s dazzling performance is simply perfection and she gives the performance of a lifetime. Her performance is worth the ticket price alone. But it’s not just the leading pair who shine; Georgie Maguire as Buck Barrow and Jodie Steele as Blanche Barrow give equally strong performances. Steele in particular stands out with her excellent acting, making Blanche a complex and sympathetic character.
The music, with a score by Frank Wildhorn and lyrics by Don Black, is another highlight of the show. The songs are catchy and uplifting, providing a great contrast to the darker themes of the story. The comedy is also well-balanced, with appropriate moments of levity that provide much-needed relief from the intense drama.
The production values are top-notch, with stunning projection work and great lighting design from Zoe Spurr. However, one downside is the removal of the child actors at the start of the show. While this decision may have been made for practical reasons, it does take away from the overall impact of the opening number.
The pace of the show is great, with director Nick Winston doing an excellent job of keeping the story moving without sacrificing character development. The costumes and set design by Philip Witcomb also add to the immersive experience.
Overall, Bonnie and Clyde The Musical is a great addition to the West End, and a must-see for fans of the genre. The talented cast, catchy music, and excellent production values make for a truly enjoyable evening at the theatre. Although not quite a perfect show, it is definitely deserving of 4 stars.
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