Hull New Theatre – until 27th April 2024
Reviewed by Dawn Bennett
5*****
The New Adventures cast brought the Hull New Theatre audience to their feet last night with an epic production of Edward Scissorhands.
I’ve seen quite a lot of New Adventure’s shows but hadn’t managed to see this one and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. It was funny, moving, joyful and beautifully danced. Sir Matthew Bourne is a brilliant choreographer and has the knack of being able to fill all of the stage with action so wherever you are sat or wherever you look something is going on. Lez Brotherston’s gorgeous set and costume design brought the production to life, they were colourful and dramatic but didn’t distract you from the fabulous dancing, they just enhanced it. The music score was from Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands film that was composed by Danny Elfman and now with new music and arrangements by Terry Davies, was stunning. The story was adapted for the stage by Caroline Thompson who, along with Tim Burton, wrote the original narrative in the film.
Even with the fantastic pedigree of the people who are involved with and produced this show it wouldn’t come together without the brilliant dancers who are all so talented. Edward Scissorhands played by Hull born Liam Mower and his ability to project feelings of humour, fear and love just through dance and without saying a word is breathtaking … what a talent he is. The Boggs family, who take in Edward, were hilarious and really stood out, from Edwards love interest Kim Boggs (Jade Copas) Bill Boggs (Dominic North) Peg Boggs (Sophia Hurdley) to Kevin Boggs (Xavier Andriambolanoro Sotiya, New Adventures Emerging Artist of 2023).
New Adventures never fails to deliver top quality productions, they are always thought provoking and Edward Scissorhands with its story of friendship, diversity and hope is no exception. It is really one not be missed.