Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – until 15 April 2023
Reviewed by Alexandra Browning
4****
Titanic the Musical starts quietly in the riff raff of the audience arriving with the Titanic’s designer Thomas Andrews (Ian McLarnon) finalising the blueprints and plans for the feat defying ship. The show starts subtly with the introduction to the Titanic, the crew and the captain. Following the introductions, the passengers of the Titanic were greeted to come onboard, starting from First Class passengers, Second Class and ending with Third Class Passengers. Once the ship was fully loaded and the final inspections checked the whole cast sang the wonderful “Godspeed Titanic”. “Godspeed Titanic” immediately sets the scene for the immensely talented cast, featuring a magnitude of talented voices and beautiful harmonies.
The show included a fantastic array of costumes including a creative use of the main cast to ensure scenes featuring: First, Second- and Third-class passengers were jam packed, over multiple points in the show it is near impossible to comprehend the speed of the costume changes and character changes the cast make. The stage features a simplistic yet obvious nod towards the bow of the Titanic and with some careful choreography involving moving scenery make you feel like you are onlooking the bow of the ship itself. This simplistic stage design finds a clever way to emulate each section of the boat from the busy engine rooms to the luxurious private dining suite.
Two stand out performers are hidden amongst the cast as Charles Clarke (Mathew McDonald) performs impressive male vocals in the song ‘We’ll Meet Tomorrow” showcasing a wide range of emotions and vocal range, in an emotional tribute to his bride-to-be. Kate McGowan (Lucie-Mae Summer) performs “Lady’s Maid” with clear lead vocals with an operatic talent.
The most tear-jerking scene of them all was between Ida Straus (Played by Valda Aviks) and Isidor Straus (Played by David Delve) in the musical number “Still” of the second act. The song highlights Ida as the last remaining female passenger in first class sharing in a romantic and tender last night together before their demise onboard The Titanic. The couple shared a romantic ballroom dance and a last drink of champagne together provided by the butler. The couple tenderly adorned their prized positions before dancing their last dance together.
Overall, I would give this performance four stars for its story and performance, although the show has to end on a sad note due to the nature of events the cast manage to pull together for one final performance of “Godspeed Titanic Reprise” for the curtain call. This performance will pull on the heartstrings but is definitely one to watch.