Despite the best efforts of the cast, Lillia fails to achieve the level of intensity it aspires to. The musical deals with identity and the development of individuality, focusing on the lives of two very different girls, Lillia and Mya. It is not the production that lets this show down nor even the writing style, what is truly disappointing is the completely forced plot. With a dramatic mid-play twist that fails to impress, a climax that fails to satisfy, and under-developed characters even the music can’t entice the audience. By the end of the ridiculous plot they simply don’t care what happens.The musical numbers are pleasant but lack qualities to make them memorable. Mya’s musical revelation of self worth is the only number that adds to the story. The powerhouse numbers lack the needed power whilst some emotional numbers fail to connect. However where the music is able to flourish is when the ensemble is used during high-tension moments. In this, the production’s only use of subtlety, the ensemble adds atmosphere and depth to songs. The script takes no time to develop the characters. Lillia is particularly devoid of substance, though this may be intentional; her overall affect is bland. There is little empathy between the audience and Mya and Lillia, therefore it is hard to care about what happens to them. Extra characters are brought in with little to contribute apart from lines and while there are some interesting ones they never feel developed. Aidan in particular shows potential to add depth to the performance but he is never fully used to best effect.Though the production itself is acceptable the script fails to entertain and the plot leaves much to be desired. The suspense that should build up to the twist never appears and the climax fails to excite. The musical numbers are mostly enjoyable but aren’t strong enough to elevate the overall performance.
