Theatre Royal, Newcastle – until Saturday 1st April 2023
5*****
We are all aware of the story behind the great ship Titanic and the fate of the many men women and children who lost their lives to the sea that dreadful evening. The history books have given us true accounts of the events of that night which have been portrayed previously through film and documentaries, however the story has made its way onto the stage in this amazing production.
Currently on its 10 Year Anniversary Tour, Danielle Tarento has produced a thing of beauty. With Maury Yeston’s music and lyrics, Peter Stone’s book and a cast almost as big as the ship itself, this ensemble piece is both poignant and breath taking.
The staging take you straight into the setting with the huge backdrop of a ships enormous frame, just giving an idea of the sheer size of the original vessel. The lighting throughout the production allows for the audience to feel the excitement of the passenger as they board the majestic Titanic. And I swear as we sailed along the northern passage on our collision with the iceberg, the theatre got steadily colder.
Passengers from all walks of life are portrayed as we meet just a few of the people who joined the ill fated ship on the 10th April 1912 from the port at Southhampton. Passengers from Steerage, Second class and First Class were introduced and to the audience as they talked about going home or heading to the New World where many dreamed of a better life. Each having their own story to tell.
Captain Smith (Graham Bickley) is seen throughout the production, meeting the staff, passengers and also the architect Thomas Andrews (Ian McLarnon) and J. Bruce Ismay (Martin Allanson). On many occasions he is seen being informed of the impending sighting of icebergs from other ships, but chooses to brush these aside. Pressure is put on him from Ismay who wants to beat the record time of getting to New York as early as possible so encourages Captain Smith to push the ships engines faster and to the maximum capacity. A decision that would be regretted as this may well have been deciding factor if this dreadful accident could have been prevented. And during The Blame, Ismay, Smith and Andrews all blame each other, whilst knowing they all played a part
The musical score throughout the production was very apt and helped the audience relate to what the passengers and staff may well have been experiencing at the time. From the opening song In Every Age to No Moon which closes Act 1 and then Wake Up, Wake Up which starts Act 2 in a dramatic manner.
This is a production I would recommend everyone takes the opportunity to see as you will not be disappointed. Although we all know how the tragic voyage ends with first hand accounts from some of the 711 survivors this will leave you with a reminder of just how precious life is. Take tissues because the superb score played by a live band, amazing acting, stunning vocals and outstanding production values will tear at your heartstrings