This completely original chamber musical by Shaye Poulton Richards is a darkly charming piece of new writing. Rowena and Maddie are best friends who, platonically, love each other deeply. However, when Maddie decides she wants to move away they have to find out whether their love is enough to sustain their friendship. This is a deeply moving and thought provoking piece that also finds a way to keep much of the show light and it never seems to drag.
A charming new piece of musical theatre that presents great skill and passion from all people involved
The story and music guides us through their relationship as it grows, crumbles and in the end somewhat repairs itself. It’s a beautiful and relatable story that gives an insight and provokes reflection on our own thoughts. With a focus on how one-sided a relationship or friendship can be when only seen from the perspective of the person that's been hurt.
There are ten original musical numbers, which are all very well composed and performed. Although none are standout showstopping numbers, that wouldn’t necessarily fit the show and they are therefore not missed. The four piece band plays each part of the music incredibly well. Adam Morris, Nelson Sinclair-Strong, Andrew Liddell and Annie Hodgson all do an incredible job switching between the extraordinarily tense music and the sweet, loving tunes that are also included.
Christy Gilbert and Emily Proudlock who play Rowena and Maddie respectively are both incredible. Gilbert plays her character with conviction and defiance, which is so necessary for her character and portrays the growth her character takes wonderfully. Proudlock slips seamlessly into her character and performs exceptionally throughout. Both performers sing with incredibly well trained voices that carry around the room and are always clear and well supported.
Overall, this is a charming new piece of musical theatre that presents great skill and passion from all involved.
