This new Chordstruck Theatre production is a feel-good, comedy musical cram packed with hilarious original jingles, as well as a message for a better world. After jingle composer, Colin, wakes up and finds he can only communicate through jingles he discovers that an activist by the name of Jasmine is the one cure. Colin must change his attitude, morals and lifestyle to be able to stay close to Jasmine and hopefully un-jingle himself along the way.
A feel-good, comedy musical cram packed with hilarious original jingles, as well as a message for a better world
The musical starts with an energetic and catchy opening number, introducing the audience to jingle street. It sets the tone for the goofy and over-the-top show that is ahead. The songs are immediately enjoyable and are the comedic high points of the show, especially a side-splitting song about pinky swears. The cast sing with incredible skill and understanding and deliver the songs to their fullest.
The characters are admittedly almost caricatures, but this somehow doesn’t take away from the poignant moments and certainly accentuates the comedic ones. Tom Hayes as Colin, does a fantastic job of being the lead character in this show, his transformation and redemption feels believable and even before his turn for the better he carries a certain charisma. Maddie Smith as Jasmine does an excellent job across from her co-stars and manages to deliver the very earnest message of her character without becoming preachy or unlikeable. Emily Hunter as Jasmine’s best friend Parsley is delightful in her role and is a breath of fresh air aside from the main message of the show. The caricature can be seen most clearly by Xander Pang in his role as Holofernes, not to say this is a bad thing. Sander’s delivery was certainly the funniest and he put an exceptional amount of physicality and enthusiasm into his character.
Joe Giles on the keyboard was also a fantastic performance, perfectly playing the music alongside being a part of the cast. The choreography also stands out with the use of the stage being exceptionally well done. It is unique, interesting and leans into the cartoonish nature of the show. This show is an incredibly exciting new production at the Fringe and it has a bright future ahead of it. You will leave thinking about what more you can do for the environment and the world, but more importantly humming catchy jingles under your breath on the way home.
