This year, Bella Wright and Carleigh McRitchie introduced their latest creation, The Gardening Club: A New Musical to the Fringe. Currently in development, the show presents its first act, ending on a cliffhanger that leaves audiences eager for more.
This musical has significant West-End potential
Set in 1960s Georgia, USA, the storyline unfolds after the introduction of the birth control pill, initially available only to married women. Six girls, outraged by this unfairness, embark on an illegal mission to distribute the pill. As expected, the plot takes a complex turn.
Belinda Matthews’ direction is both fabulous and intricate. Her meticulous approach to the script helps the performers bring out their characters and explore the dynamics between them.
The show earns a solid four-star rating instead of five, due to occasional projection issues that made some characters difficult to understand, due to the absence of microphones. Improving this aspect would enhance the overall experience.
The music and lyrics are catchy and brimming with promise. We left the theatre humming the tunes, with melodies and harmonies that sent chills down our spines. The songs, with their pop-rock feel, offer diverse sub-genres that align with the main theme while conveying the characters' emotions and situations. A standout song, Broken State Of Mind, was particularly moving.
While it’s impossible to mention every performer, special recognition goes to Isaac Moore, who brilliantly dual-tracked as Luke Graves and Miles Bourne. Moore’s portrayal of Luke, a toxic masculine character, and Miles, a shy love interest for Vicki Martin, played fabulously by Hannah Dootson, showcased his range. Emma Wallace’s performance as Sheila Watson was equally captivating, and Lola Garlick’s intricate portrayal of Grace Martin’s teenage character was noteworthy.
Overall, this musical has significant West-End potential. I eagerly anticipate seeing how the plot concludes and hope to witness this musical on a grander stage someday.
