Multiverse Musical is a show with a twist. Using suggestions from the audience, the company created a brand new, one-off musical on the spot. On this occasion, the setting was an ice rink, the struggle was 'blade or no blade' and the title was Snow Choice. A very apt title given the unpredictable wet weather conditions at the time of reviewing that all were up against.
With different suggestions each time, is sure to keep you on your toes.
What evolved on an empty stage, with just a couple of boxes to indicate a simplistic set and a single keyboard player, was a show with extremely strong improvisation skill and dynamic musical theatre experience combined. The storyline explored the idea of what would happen if in another universe – another choice for our protagonist. It was simple, yet powerful. It not only provided a strong musical theatre format, but also encouraged us to think about any choice we make in a mindful, accessible way.
On this occasion, Multiverse Musical had a slightly tricky subject with 'blade or no blade'. Despite the energy falling slightly flat on occasion and the tech at one point going against them (which they recovered extremely well from) we should remember every suggestion each time they do the show is different. On this show, the way that things evolved was a great challenge and Multiverse Musical did a fantastic job with the material finding golden moments of improvised comedy. For instance, performers Emma Wessleus (protagonist) and Lisa Lynn teamed up as a lesbian couple, with Sabrina Luisi playing Wessleus' hard working mother with an obsession with full time jobs. There was a moment when Luisi had been referring to Lynn's character as 'husband' throughout the first universe, but in the alternative universe, Lynn made a brilliant usage of this faux pas by biting back with the fact that she was actually a wife and to 'get with the times!'
A special mention has to also go to Lee Apsey, who played two very different roles. The upbeat character of the head of the Olympics, then switching to a guy who was extremely reminiscent comedy and vocal wise of Rowan Atkinson's classic character 'Mr Bean'. Visually hilarious to watch.
Multiverse Musical was an experience that added a well needed uplifting mood to these uncertain times and with different suggestions each time, is sure to keep you on your toes.
