Born in an old man's body with a strange affliction that causes him to age in reverse, Benjamin Button is shut away by his parents for all of his 'childhood' where he dreams of life outside the attic. Escaping his cage, Benjamin embarks on various chapters of an adventurous and love-filled life, seeking above all else somewhere to belong.
Jethro Compton has taken a fanciful but head-scratching concept and produced a decidedly moving and joyous piece of art that explores the importance of coming to terms with yourself, accepting love, and embracing adventure. His script is a delight, with fun external narration adding to or undermining vibrant characters; the metaphors of moon and sea, and of tides and time, are truly stunning and will stay with you long after the final bow. The pacing of the show and its direction (by Compton) are impeccable - we are constantly engaged and engrossed at every turn. But what makes this musical something really special is Darren Clark's stunning score. Taking inspiration from its Cornish coastal setting, the heartwarming folk and sea-shanty numbers that thread through this show are everything we could hope for and more!
Bringing the gorgeous music to life is an exceptional ensemble made up of actor-musos who never once lose sight of the imperative pacing and swells of dynamics through the course of the show - they synchronise with each other much like drops of water in the ocean's waves, carrying us through this beautiful and engaging narrative. Though perhaps Benjamin's mother and father could benefit from more sincerity of character, we are presented with a plethora of entertaining caricatures via mere snippets of action. This chorus connects with the audience in such a soulful way that brings us into their story-telling tavern where we feel as if we might pull up a chair and be welcomed to order our own "just beer"! Magnificent and electric, an ensemble of this calibre is a rare treat to be enjoyed, directed by Compton with flare and passion.
Amid this incredibly talented cast, three performances deserve particular mention. Jack Quarton has absolutely marvellous comedic skills as Little Jack, melting our hearts and tickling our ribs in one fell swoop. Clare Foster gives a captivating and layered performance as Elowen.
And it is John Dagleish's Benjamin Button that will leave you with your jaw on the floor. His characterisation is consistent and beautiful, endlessly charismatic with the cheekiest of grins, and he manages to age himself down from an elderly man to a sprightly 22-year-old with bewitching ease. In his eyes, there is a truth of character so rarely captured on stage, and his vocals are a work of art unto themselves - Dagleish leads this cast with utter mastery, bringing out the very best of this charming material.
The chemistry that unites the ensemble is undeniable, no better exemplified than in the romance between Forster and Dagleish's characters - we believe every glance, every word left unsaid, every touch, every kiss, as the pair transfix us with their portrayal of a couple so uniquely destined and yet star-crossed. This can be attributed to our leading couple's talent, but also Adelaide Waldrop's brilliant intimacy direction.
The entire production is made even more impactful through some exquisite lighting design by Zoe Spurr - we really are transported to an old port town - and beautifully subtle costuming from Emma Hollows; not to mention the stunningly creative and crowded set designed by Compton - the space itself never feels too small, but forcing the performers to weave around the set and each other brings a fresh and fun energy that is infectious throughout. This show deserves a bigger stage and bigger budget to bring even more mystical magic to future delighted audiences!
For a toe-tapping, heart-wrenching, cheek-aching evening of glorious new musical theatre, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button runs at The Ambassadors Theatre until 15th February.
Review: Penny Lane Photos: Marc Brenner