York Theatre Royal – Wednesday 29th May 2024
Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
4****
What musical do you know that has no plot, no lines, and no musical numbers? Showstopper! The Improvised Musical of course. This is a show like no other. An innovative, creative show, where you as the audience, mould the story and the actors on stage improvise.
The stage is stripped back, a desk with a red telephone standing out. The phone rings and a writer of musicals (Sean McCann, who narrates throughout) is given a deadline to create a new musical, he needs help. Encouraging the audience to shout out suggestions of themes, styles and show titles, which ensures that an utterly unique, one-off show is premiered every night.
For one night only our show was ‘I’ve Only Got 10 Candles’, a play on another audience member suggestion of her daughter’s 11th birthday celebration. With a cast of five, how would it unfold, whilst incorporating Shrek, Carousel, the musical styles of Sondheim and Jason Robert Brown, and not forgetting a bit of Beyonce? Set around the BBC of 1964 and the success of the Two Ronnies and their ‘Four Candles’ sketch, of course. A bit of poetic licence with the dates, but who cares as the improvisation was very inspired. A beleaguered scout, wife and kids at home, smitten with a work colleague is searching for new talent. What follows is a madcap, imaginative show where a talented 11-year-old had a 74-year-old brother, the would-be fling is really in love with the wife, and the wife is a fabulous baker and sick and tired of making shepherds pie. You really couldn’t make this up, but they sure did and produced something unique and entertaining.
The improvisers (Justin Brett, Matt Cavendish, Pippa Evans, Ali James and Adam Meggido) show off their skills and talent through teamwork, feeding off each other. They were joined onstage by a two-piece band, consisting of Jordan Clarke and Nathan Gregory. Armed with nothing but their wits and ability, they deliver a humorous, wonderful performance. It is impressive and exciting to watch.
All the requested elements, and then some were weaved into the story. ‘All The Powerful Ladies’, inspired by Beyonce, was a favourite. Performed by Evans and James, it was a masterclass of improv, with both lyrics and dance moves completely in sync. Bravo ladies!
The standout performer for me was Evans. She has a great physical presence on stage and is sharp as a pin. She produced the biggest laugh of the evening, involving cake, marzipan, and Dick Van Dyke. James and Meggido showcased their vocals skills, with lyrics and performance, whilst Cavendish and Brett adapted to any situation with ease, all exhibited fabulous comedic timing. All are clearly passionate about what they do, and this is contagious.
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical is a joy to watch, led by the audience’s imagination and executed by an ever changing, talented cast. You can guarantee that no night will ever be the same. Their infectious comedy and chemistry make for captivating and engaging experience.