Falsettos, The Other Palace Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until November 23, 2019


A lot of theatre draws strength from being strongly rooted in a time and place, but for a piece to last it also has to transcend those dimensions. Falsettos is set in 1978 and 1981, but its relevance endures. This work comes out of a time when society began to acknowledge different definitions of family and gay identity was being forged. Those issues have not gone away, but Falsettos also addresses the timeless questions of building relationships, coping with parents, and the perspective that death brings to all our transient frustrations and obsessions. This production does all of the above with terrific humour, a wonderful score and lyrics and a brilliant cast. Laura Pitt-Pulford defines show-stopper with "I'm Breaking Down" and absolutely embodies Trina. Daniel Boys as Marvin and Oliver Savile as Whizzer hit just the right notes as they struggle to define their connection with each other and Marvin's former wife and son. Their clashes and affection are totally believable. Joel Montague is excellent as Mendel, the flawed psychiatrist who nevertheless has some insight into this complex situation. His "Everyone Hates His Parents" with George Kennedy's beautifully played Jason was another comic high point. This is a fast-paced delight which wonderfully captures life's laughter and tears. Don't miss this first London run of a new classic!

 Reviewed by J.C.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until November 23, 2019
Mon - Sat: 7:30 pm, Thu & Sat: 2:30 pm
The Other Palace Theatre
Nearest station: Victoria
Map & Location: 12 Palace St, Westminster, London SW1E 5JA, UK

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