The Little Big Things ★★★★ @sohoplace | Sep 2 - Nov 25, 2023


When he was seventeen, Henry Fraser suffered a life changing accident whilst holidaying in Portugal. The rugby playing teen became paralysed from the shoulders down, and this exuberantly upbeat and funny musical traces how he and his family dealt with that adversity. Based on Fraser's memoir, the show deals with the denial, regret and blame that inevitably follow in the wake of such an accident, but ultimately it celebrates the emergence of a new more introspective Henry who is an artist and who is able to face the future with confidence. Fraser's role is divided between two actors. Post-accident Henry, perceptively played by Ed Larkin, is shadowed by a wonderfully energetic Jonny Amies who, as pre-accident Henry, haunts the former with the suggestion of "what might have been." The acceptance and integration of these two selves becomes a powerful drama, bolstered by the terrific score of Nick Butcher and Tom Ling and the extraordinary choreography of Mark Smith. Songs like "Miles and Miles" and "The Little Big Things" continue to resonate long after one has left the theatre. The stellar performances of the two principals are also supported by a cast which definitely brings its A-game to the show. It seems almost unfair to single anyone out, but Amy Trigg as the no-nonsense physiotherapist and Malinda Parris as Dr Graham lit up the stage whenever they appeared. Full marks also to director, Luke Sheppard, who paces the show perfectly and walks that fine line, engaging the audience emotionally without ever becoming maudlin. Here's a show that takes the audience on a journey that is both inspirational and thoroughly entertaining.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Pamela Raith

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: Soho Pl, London WC2H 0LA, UK

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