The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾, Ambassadors Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until September 28, 2019


When you are 13 and ¾ a year can seem like a long time and for Adrian Mole it is certainly an eventful year. But for those of us in the theatre the time just flew by! I must confess I have never read the Adrian Mole stories, but I now certainly intend to. This is West End musical at its best: original, bright, funny and heart-warming. The music is a delight. The libretto is clever and the script is based on a story that speaks to all of us. We have all been 13 and ¾ and we know the angst, the idealism, and the infatuation that comes with being on the brink of entering the often alluring yet somewhat incomprehensible world of adulthood. This is a story for all ages, and the whole cast gets it just right. Amy Ellen Richardson and Andrew Langtree are pitch perfect as Adrian's parents. John Hopkins as Mr. Lucas and Lara Denning as Doreen are simply hilarious! Rosemary Ashe's Grandma and Ian Talbot's Bert ring completely true as the older generation while Cuba Kamanu is a strong Nigel. Matilda Hopkins as Pandora is clever, fetching and completely believable as the barely attainable object of adolescent aspiration. But the evening belongs to Michael Hawkins. He is delightful as the "intellectual" Adrian, both goofy and insightful, confused and yet wise beyond his years. It is a terrific performance. If you are the parent of a teenager or just remember being one you will love this show which includes the world's funniest nativity play as a bonus!

Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until September 28, 2019
Mon - Sat: 7:30 pm, Thu & Sat: 2:30 pm
Ambassadors Theatre
Nearest tube: Leicester Square
Map & Location: West St, London WC2H 9ND, UK

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