High Fidelity, The Turbine Theatre - ★★★★★ - Until December 7, 2019


This delightful musical definitely makes our top-five list! Nick Hornby's story about the geeky owner of a vinyl record shop and his band of misfit friends is a great start; the addition of good music and smart lyrics bring it to life. Finally, we have a musical with songs that don't all sound the same and lyrics crackling with wit and insight which stay true to character and the plot. "Desert Island Top Five Break-Ups," "Ian's Here," "I Slept With Someone Who Slept With Lyle Lovett" plus the ballads "Ready To Settle" and "Laura, Laura" are just outstanding. The quality of the writing is also perfectly matched by an amazingly energetic cast who just don't stop. The director, Tom Jackson Greaves, does a great job using the limited space available while also bringing some completely believable performances out of his cast. Oliver Ormson is a dynamo, doing a great turn as Rob who can't take responsibility for very much, including the breakdown of his relationship with the more focussed Laura deftly played by Shanay Holmes. Robbie Durham as Barry, and Carl Au as Dick are quite perfect as the nerdy shop assistants. Robert Tripolino is simply hilarious as Ian who gives us some unforgettable comic moments. Rosie Fletcher as Annie and Eleanor Kane as Marie are also pitch perfect, as is Bobbie Little who plays Liz, Rob and Laura's 'adult in the room' friend. Kudos also to Joshua Dever as Neil Young/Bruce Springsteen and other cast members Jessica Lee and Lauran Rae. The characters here finally get it together, but this show has it together from the very first note. Take an evening to step into the wonderful world of nerds on the loose and vinyl!

 Reviewed by J.C.

  Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆☆ 

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 WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until December 7, 2019
Tue - Sat: 7:30 pm, Thu, Sat & Sun: 3 pm
The Turbine Theatre
Nearest tube: Sloane Square
https://www.theturbinetheatre.com/whats-on/high-fidelity
Map & Location: Arches Ln, Nine Elms, London SW11 8AB, UK

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