Southampton Mayflower – until 24 August 2024
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
3***
Dreamworks classic ‘Madagascar’ has been adapted to a stage musical, and it is the perfect family treat this holiday!
Following the main plot of the film, 4 animals escape New York Zoo and end up in Madagascar…’The Wild!!’ Alex the Lion (Joseph Hewlett) Marty the Zebra (Francisco Gomes) Gloria the Hippo (Jarnéia Richard-Noel) and Melman the Giraffe (Joshua Oakes-Rogers) are our 4 main characters, each bringing a different element to the show. They work well together, but for me, Melman (Joshua Oakes-Rogers) was the stand out of this quad. He had the hardest job, bringing to life Melman’s puppet as well as singing and dancing with the others – it was fabulous!! Hewlett was superb as Alex, bringing an extremely cat-like personality to the stage. The 4 get shipped off to Madagascar, where they meet the illustrious King Julien (Connor Keetley), king of the inhabitants of the island. When he meets these ‘New York Giants’, he realises they are able to fight the Foosa, the predators attacking Julien’s tribe. Alex, longing for his comfy life in the zoo, dreams of steak and ends up being banished from the island because he is unable to be around the little creatures. However, through loyalty and friendship, he is rescued and comes to love his new life on the island. King Julien sings the iconic ‘I Like to Move It Move It’ and brings the show to a close with the audience on their feet dancing along. Keetley brought such humour and perfection to this role, it was a perfect performance. The penguins, who are known for ‘Smile and wave’ were brought to life by Gabriel Hinchcliffe, Brogan Mcfarlane and Laura Marie Benson – the most amazing ensemble. They didn’t put a foot wrong, made the audience laugh and added an extra zest to the story with their witty additions.
The costumes and staging were fantastic, transporting the audience right into the heart of the story and when accompanied by Fabian Aloise’ choreography made you believe you were right there!!!
This is the perfect summer holiday treat for adults and kids alike – but with seats selling fast, you’d better ‘Move it Move it’ to snag a spot!