New Wimbledon Theatre, Wimbledon – until 11 May 2024
Reviewed by Amber Mills
4****
Based on the classic film Madagascar this is a family oriented show, that is full of passion and energy. The whole cast delivered an exuberant and animated performance.
JARNÉIA RICHARD-NOEL who played Gloria the hippo really embodied the bubbly, beautiful bright eyed woman Gloria is. She’s got a big personality that shines throughout the musical, not to mention her powerful vocals and her cheeky flamboyant dance moves!
KARIM ZEROUAL who played King Julian stole the show when making his spectacular
entrance in Act 2. King Julian is a self centred lemur who is easily distracted and often
becomes consumed by an idea or notion. He never takes the blame for his actions which
becomes very entertaining to watch as the blame is always put on Moet or Maurice. Every
time Zeroual came out onto the stage he commanded it from start to finish whilst smoothly
gliding across on his knees. Every dance number looked effortless to him and his speed
across the stage when portraying the energetic, colourful lemur is a skill in itself. King Julian
is a party animal and insists on everyone having fun, and this is something Zeroual impersonates very well throughout the whole show.
The one aspect no one could fault is the puppetry. It’s a talent to be able to bring these
characters to life in a realistic way whilst singing and dancing. The puppets are so life like
and the kids loved them!
The overall set was minimal but effective. The set highlight for me was when they were in
there shipping containers as the lighting and acting aspect was very life like and natural.
The music was original and vibrant, with hip-hop style songs that were catchy and dynamic.
The only downfall to this lively show was that the transitions between scenes were too long, which meant the musical lost its energy slightly. However despite the long transitions the whole cast always gave off a vibrant energy that kept you engaged throughout.
Overall this is a family friendly show that kids will love and with the show only being 1 hour
40 minutes it’s a great night out that will leave long lasting memories.