Bristol Hippodrome – until 29th January 2022
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
4****
From the original Sherman and Sherman Disney film comes Bedknobs and Broomsticks on stage! With additional music written by Neil Bartram, this is a truly spellbinding performance!
Dianne Pilkington brings Eglantine Price to life, and she does not disappoint!!! With such grace and poise and a sneaky twinkle in her eye, she will welcome you with a beautiful voice and extravagant magic….some that I am still trying to figure out! The magic is assisted by Illusion Consult, Chris Fisher, who left the audience astounded with jaw dropping illusions! Pilkington is the perfect Price and makes the part truly her own whilst paying homage to the original from Angela Lansbury. This is a work of art and Jill Green, casting director, has excelled with Dianne! Together with Charles Brunton, as the extraordinarily normal Emelius Browne, this pairing is and incredible feat and is the perfect love story between the brilliant sorcery!
The 3 young children, Dexter Barry, Isabella Bucknell and Conor O’Hara as Paul, Carrie and Charlie are a great addition and drive the story onwards with their uplifting songs-and Paul is integral as he possesses the magical Bedknob!
The ensemble is phenomenal in this production, taking on all the scene changes and props as well as puppeteering and adding delicious harmonies! It was a real treat to see the joy and exuberance of the ensemble. For me, the stand out star of the ensemble was Rob Madge. They had a grin on their face that was so infectious and made me so excited for them to come onstage. They were also so expressive whilst commandeering the ‘Fish’ and really brought it to life!! They are a real star!
Overall, this is a spellbinding show that will mystify and excite you, whilst having you bob along as the cast navigates you through song and dance-one not to miss!