Miss Saigon Review

Bristol Hippodrome – until 23rd June 2018

Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock

5*****

In a split second, a calm auditorium is transformed into the war torn area of Saigon. There, we meet Kim, who is forced to work in a bar by the infamous Engineer. This bar is frequented by the American soldiers, one of which is named Chris and he falls in love with Kim. After a night of passion, they wed but are ripped apart by the war. For 3 years, Kim is desperate to find Chris again and her journey begins. Her fight for survival is gripping and she just wants to see Chris again; not just for her sake, but to introduce him to the son he fathered just before he left.

Right from the start, the audience is captivated by the show. ‘The Heat is On’ makes for a highly erotic scene, introducing us to the Engineer. Red Concepción excelled as this role. He relished every moment on stage and drew the audience in effortlessly. He provided some much needed comic relief during the darker scenes of the show and provided us with an absolute showstopper of ‘The American dream’. It is during this first scene that we also come across Chris, who was sensitively played by Ashley Gilmour. He was outstanding. The emotion and passion that was exerted through his role was breathtaking and we could really sympathise with his struggle at leaving his love in Saigon. His voice effortlessly soared through the auditorium and the audience truly fell in love with Chris.

With such a vast array of cast members, it is a real treat to be able to experience the hustle and bustle of Saigon. Of the 30+ people that blessed the stage, there was one stand out performance.

Sooha Kim, as Kim, was incredible. Her serene beauty contrasted with the defiance and bravery shown towards the oppressors in a way that is phenomenal. Sooha encapsulated the formidable character of Kim and really brought her to light. Her voice was angelic and she performed with great ease and ardour. She conveyed such vulnerability with a deep undertone of strength that was counteracted by the desperation she felt when Chris deserted her and showed her outstanding acting abilities perfectly. Frankly, Sooha was incredible and stole the show. Her chemistry with Gilmour as Chris was electric and the pair of them were a totally believable and impressive couple-a pleasure to watch.

Other characters of note are Ryan O’Gorman as John and Elana Martin as Ellen. Both supporting roles but aided the progression of the show and provided gripping scenes. Ryan O’Gorman’s stand out scene was ‘Bui Doi’. His strong voice was a perfect match to the forceful message he was conveying about the war. At times, it was difficult to hear his speech over the dramatic music coming from the band. Elana Martin as Chris’s new wife Ellen showed her prowess during ‘Maybe’. Her vocals were exceptionally strong and she showed the complex and deep thoughts of Ellen with ease.

This show will bombard you with lights, music, screams, sex and pain. However, the most impressive part that set this show apart from the rest is the entrance of the Helicopter. A life size helicopter glides from the upper gantry, complete with working propellers. In accordance with the flashing lights, smoke and sound effects, this was extraordinary. This was spectacular and was the most jaw dropping and technically superb part of the show.

The choreography also deserves a huge well done. It was very fast paced during ‘The Morning of the Dragon’ with leaps and jumps, flags and life size Dragon complete with smoke bellowing from the nostrils. ‘The American Dream’ was more of a showgirl from Las Vegas number and the two different styles of dance showed Richard Jones’ (the Choreographer) skill, precision and attention to detail.

This tragic love story is definitely one to watch and you will not be disappointed. Your senses will be overwhelmed by the heartwarming power of Miss Saigon.

Parental Guidance Advised.