Come From Away, The Phoenix Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until May 23, 2020


An affirmation of community and kindness is what we are looking for in the world today. This is a feel-good musical for dark times. In the fearful days around 9/11, Gander, Newfoundland doubled in size as planes were diverted from US destinations to this rural nowhere. And, the people of the town welcomed those who had "come from away" and provided a contrast to the dark forces that seek to divide us and try to parse our common humanity. The grumpiness and suspicion that are present in such traumatic situations are not hidden, but the caring of community triumphs. The music is infectious. There is humour and there is above all hope that we can be so much better than what the hate-filled seek to turn us into. This is a musical entertainment, but it is also a call to be our better selves. A spontaneous standing ovation from the audience, including us.

 Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

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 WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until May 23, 2020
Mon - Sat: 7:30 pm, Wed & Sat: 2:30 pm
Phoenix Theatre
Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road
https://www.thephoenixtheatre.co.uk/
Map & Location: Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0JP, UK

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Pippin, The Garden Theatre at The Eagle - ★★★★ - Until October 11, 2020

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Happy hippie troubadours invade this intimate space only to charm their way into our hearts and minds. It might be interesting to discuss the existential crisis which inhabits the heart of Stephen Schwartz's entertainment, but it is far better to relax and let this exceedingly talented troupe entertain us with their superbly directed and choreographed performances. The whole panoply of life in the time of Charlemagne is laid out before us on a pocket handkerchief of a stage. It is all festively strung with fairy lights and surrounded by forests of potted palms. As Pippin himself, Ryan Anderson displays extraordinary talent including some jaw-dropping athleticism. The ambiguity of Pippin being trapped but happy with his lot is nicely developed. Harry Francis is a delight as the fit-but-dim stepbrother, Lewis, and he dances up a storm. Dan Krikler's fine voice serves well as King Charlemagne. However, the clear audience favourite is Joanne Clifton as Pippin's stepmother and,…
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Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score: ☆☆☆☆☆

WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE: Wed - Sun: 10 am - 5 pm (last entry at 4:30 pm) Closed: Dec 24, 25, 26, 31 & Jan 1
Private Apartments Tours: 1:15 pm & 2:00 pm Sir John Soane's museum, Lincoln's Inn Fields Nearest tube: Holborn https://www.soane.org
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Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆ 

WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until September 14, 2019
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