The theatre is dying, so Jordana Belaiche and Grace O’Keefe are holding a séance to bring back the legendary musical theatre composer, Stephen Joshua Sondheim. Their goal? To save musical theatre and, in turn, the world.
You are sure to be bewitched!
Summoning Sondheim is a hilarious, camp show that oozes with theatricality from start to finish. With original songs by O’Keefe, the production offers musical theatre lovers the chance to indulge in their familiar favourites whilst enjoying the freshness of new writing. O’Keefe’s songs are themselves an homage to Sondheim, with motifs and phrases that mimic his signature melodic style and use of prosody. Though a live pianist would have elevated the piece and made for a more enveloping acoustic experience, this is a tall ask considering the limitations of Fringe and the pair do well to work with the facilities they have.
We are energetically welcomed into the space, and the duo begin the ritual, chanting Sondheim’s name to the tune of ‘Company’ followed by their opening number Summoning Tonight. The Sondheim fever is driven by the bubbly and effervescent O’Keefe, the true “child of Steve”, as Belaiche attempts to conceal her obliviousness. Skilfully directed by Bel Parker, the dynamic between the two is ripe for comedy. A particularly magical number sets Sondheim’s biography to the prologue from Into The Woods, which is a clever nod for fellow theatre kids to delight in.
We meet the séance’s medium, Chanel, hysterically portrayed by the brilliant Belaiche who is a master of character comedy. Her exaggerated movements and cockney accent are priceless, especially in contrast with O’Keefe’s endearing Americanisms. She comically parodies mystic charlatans with aplomb and O’Keefe’s enthusiasm contrasts perfectly.
This comedy cabaret is not without its thoughtful undertones, however, as the pair make meaningful reference to the sexism in the theatre industry. In the history of the awards, only one Tony has been awarded to a musical written entirely by women, which in itself tells of the lack of representation of female writers in musical theatre. Sondheim’s work has provided such inspiration to the generations of Broadway Babies that follow him. O’Keefe emphasises the importance of his continuing legacy, and the need to carry the torch forward. There is no escape, however, from the dark reality that female performers suffer exploitation and perversion from all sides, and the show makes an important reference to this without departing from their campy tone.
Summoning Sondheim is a true love letter to Sondheim both in its toe tapping musical numbers and its flamboyant, spooky energy. You are sure to be bewitched!
