Next Thing You Know, The Garden Theatre at The Eagle - ★★★★ - Until October 31, 2020


Terrific talent really takes Joshua Salzman and Ryan Cunningham's charming musical, Next Thing You Know, to a higher level. The show is well directed by Robert McWhir, and David Shields makes very stylish use of the theatre's space. There's nothing too heavy here; we simply have four twenty-something New Yorkers telling us about their relationships and contemplating their futures. However, the piece gives its young performers a real opportunity to showcase their talents. The cast are all straight out of drama school, but based on this offering we predict a stellar career for all of them. Throughout the evening, their ensemble work is spot on and individually they each shine brightly. Bessy Ewa, who has a delightful presence and singing voice, brings a sassy, brassy style to Waverley, the part-time barista. Her soon to be ex-boyfriend, the pleasantly geeky writer, Darren, is extremely well played by Nathan Shaw. Kudos go to Callum Henderson who exudes charismatic energy as the Lothario, Luke, who thinks he is God's gift to all women. A particular treat was the two guys' witty, tongue-in-cheek duet, "The Way to Get a Girl". The fourth member of the gang is Lisa, a singer who has only recently come out to her friends and who is now looking for a girlfriend. Amelia Atherton absolutely lights up the stage with her all-embracing smile, and her singing is quite superb. This is a show which is bound to resonate with all twenty-somethings who are coming to terms with encroaching maturity, but it has something for all of us. That appeal is beautifully encapsulated in the second act opener, "Hungover". Settle back and enjoy this entertaining and intelligent little gem of a show; the 'Next Thing You Know' you'll be applauding enthusiastically.

Reviewed by D.S.J.
Photo by NatLPho.

 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until October 31, 2020
Various show times available. See website below.
The Garden Theatre, The Eagle
Nearest tube: Vauxhall
Map & Location: 349 Kennington Ln, Vauxhall, London SE11 5QY, UK

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