The Actor’s Church, Covent Garden – until 9th December 2023
Reviewed by Fiona Leyman
5*****
There is nothing more mesmerising than watching a flame flicker on a candle. Now, imagine hundreds of (artificial) candles all flickering together, mixed with the enchanting sounds of a string quartet, in the setting of a beautiful church. Sounds too good to be true doesn’t it?
Nestled in the middle of London’s bustling Covent Garden stands the beautiful 16th Century St. Paul’s Church, or otherwise known, The Actor’s Church. There aren’t many places in the centre of London where you can break away from the noise and crowds of Londoners and tourists going about their busy lives, but this little church is tranquillity in the heart of the city. With its walls steeped in theatrical history and memorial plaques with some of the of the most notable names in theatre, Sir Charlie Chaplin, Sir Noel Coward, Stanley Holloway to name just a few, this is the perfect location for such an event.
This magnificent church, lit only by candlelight, showcases the extraordinary talent of the Icon Strings Quartet. With a repertoire full of the most iconic songs from musical theatre, these four incredibly gifted chamber musicians are a wonder to behold. Each of these performers are both National and International award-winning musicians and have performed in some of the most coveted venues around the world. Nathalie Green Buckley on Viola and Elise Harper on Violin, who has toured with the likes of Michael Bublé and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, both play beautifully on instruments which are nearly 200 years old. Award winning Kirsten Jenson on Cello and Waterhouse Prize winner Haru Ushigusa on Violin, complete this amazing quartet. Collectively these musicians can be heard on the most notable albums and soundtracks, such as Downton Abbey, The Matrix and Blue Planet. Each complimented the others beautifully, sending their sounds echoing around every inch of the church.
Musicals by Candlelight is exactly what it says on the tin, your favourite musical theatre songs, enjoyed in the beauty of candlelight. I feel this description does not give this the justice it deserves though. There is no flashy staging, theatrics or costumes that we have become accustomed to being on London’s West End. This intimate concert is stripped back, raw and has simplicity at the heart of it. Hearing songs such as ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’ from Funny Girl, or ‘Don’t Cry For Me Argentina’ from Evita played on the simple strings of an instrument is something not to be missed. Their ever-changing set list includes classics by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Stephen Sondheim and memorable songs from shows like Mamma Mia, Hairspray, The Lion King and my personal favourite, Dear Evan Hansen.
Seeing each audience member watch in awe, as each song ignites a personal memory in their own mind is a wonder to watch. If you want a place to clear your mind and get away from the hustle and bustle of London, Musicals by Candlelight at the Actors Church is the place to go. Close your eyes, soak in the sounds, it will leave you feeling peaceful, with goosebumps on your arms and a big smile on your face. If I could give Musicals by Candlelight more than 5 stars, then I happily would.