Menier Chocolate Factory – until 17 April 2022
Reviewed by Claire Roderick
4****
The magnificent Maria Friedman shares songs and stories from her friends Stephen Sondheim, Marvin Hamlisch, Michel Legrand in this intimate and magical show.
Opening with a soul-stirring rendition of Being Alive, it’s not long before Friedman kicks off her heels and starts chatting to the audience as if we are old friends reminiscing together over a few drinks and songs. The love shared by Friedman and the three composers is evident across the evening as old favourites are performed and Friedman tells sweet anecdotes ranging from their first meetings to later life, with their mutual admiration and respect shining through. The biggest laughs came from the stories Marvin Hamlisch’s widow told. The relaxed and free-wheeling atmosphere as Friedman chats with Ian McLarnon and Matthew White about their long friendships and performances together changes as soon as it’s time for the next number, as every performer onstage is outstanding. Director David Babani keeps the show from going off the rails but maintains the convivial feel at just the right level.
Surrounded by her four main “friends” Friedman doesn’t always take centre stage, with White and McLarnon excelling in their solos. Newcomers Desmonda Cathabel and Alfie Friedman (Maria’s son) are astounding – Cathabel’s “The Miller’s Son” is remarkably layered and Alfie Friedman’s performance of “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” was simply phenomenal. Guest performer Aoife Dunne was charming, and the smile on Maria Friedman’s face as she watched these young artists onstage was delightful to see. She knows the legacy of these three men is in safe, but exciting hands.
Musical director Theo Jamieson is a wizard on piano – his arrangements perfectly suiting the performers – with James Powell on drums and Paul Moylan on double bass (who appears to have played in every show in London and has a wonderful cameo).
With so many gorgeous songs to choose from in the three composers works, the selection for this show is extremely well balanced. Sections from Sunday in the Park with George and A Chorus Line are entrancing, with the young choir getting their chance to shine. Friedman and Matthew White have a ball with the darkly comic “A Little Priest”. Friedman’s rich and emotive voice is equally convincing as a young wannabe performer in “Broadway Baby” and in her world weary and heart-breaking “Losing My Mind”. The evening flies by as you just bathe in her glorious vocals and incredible stage presence.
This is a not to be missed show – a warm and welcoming celebration of friends, old and new, showcasing incredible talent and unforgettable performances.