Podcast Summary: "Mickey-Jo Just Saw the STARLIGHT EXPRESS Revival | All the Changes Made to the New West End Production"

Podcast Information:

• Title: MickeyJoTheatre
• Host: MickeyJoTheatre
• Episode: Mickey-Jo just saw the STARLIGHT EXPRESS revival | All the changes made to the new West End production
• Release Date: June 8, 2024

Introduction

In this episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre dives deep into the much-anticipated revival of Starlight Express at the Troubadour Theatre in Wembley Park, marking its West End debut. With a passionate background in theatre criticism and a substantial following on his YouTube channel, Mickey-Jo provides an exclusive glimpse into the revamped production, highlighting the extensive changes and offering insights from his firsthand experience at the final dress rehearsal.

Exclusive Access and Viewing Experience

Mickey-Jo begins by emphasizing the uniqueness of his experience, noting that he attended the final dress rehearsal [00:00] without an official invitation, securing tickets through connections. This exclusive access allows him to share detailed observations about the production's evolution without the influence of press-only perspectives.

“I simply got tickets through a friend of a friend. And the mindset that I went into that performance with was one of enormous intrigue.” [00:45]

He clarifies that his initial viewing was not a traditional review since the show was not yet open for press. Instead, his approach was that of a fan eager to understand the production's new elements and how they compare to previous renditions.

Design and Set Configuration

Mickey-Jo delves into the design aspects of the revival, describing the newly named Starlight Auditorium at the Troubadour Theatre. He notes significant changes in the auditorium's layout, including a raised floor level and lowered ceiling due to new technical rigging, creating a more intimate atmosphere despite the venue's substantial 1,000-seat capacity.

“The auditorium feels very different and is very differently configured in terms of the seating for a handful of reasons.” [15:30]

The aesthetic aligns with the marketing materials, presenting a futuristic vibe reminiscent of Tron and early 2000s BBC competition series. The central circular stage is surrounded by pie-shaped audience sections with a prominent oval track, interconnected by ramps and slopes, facilitating dynamic performances.

Costume Design

A standout feature of the revival is the costume design by Gabriella Slade, renowned for her work on Six the Musical. The costumes maintain the iconic essence of Starlight Express characters while infusing a modern, subtlety-rich approach.

“The way that train features have been incorporated into these costumes is subtler.” [25:00]

Notable changes include Rusty's predominantly orange costume with innovative neck cowl pieces and Greaseball’s transformation into a female character with a sleek, black aesthetic inspired by 90s supermodel looks. The overall palette is vibrant, enhancing the futuristic theme.

Production Overview

Under the direction of Luke Shepard, known for Little Big Things and Juliet, Slowly, the revival delivers a familiar yet refreshed rendition of Starlight Express. Mickey-Jo highlights the production's commitment to maintaining the show's essence while introducing modern elements.

“It's exactly what you would expect a Luke Shepard directed version of Starlight Express to be.” [35:00]

The production incorporates queer themes and enhanced sentimentality, particularly in the portrayal of the child actor controlling the trains. The stage presence of the child actor is more pronounced, adding depth to the narrative without altering the core storyline.

Character Changes

Mickey-Jo outlines several significant character updates:

• Freight Trains: The previous ensemble of generic trains has been streamlined into three distinct characters: Porter, Slickoil, and Hydra. This revision introduces fresh dynamics and modern relevance, with Hydra embodying contemporary themes like hydrogen technology.

“Hydra fulfills the same role that Dustin the Big Hopper did, but with a very different approach and characterization.” [45:15]

• Greaseball and Dinah: Greaseball is now portrayed as a female train, subtly infusing queer representation through the affectionate relationship with Dinah. This nuanced portrayal aligns with modern sensibilities without being overt.

• Elektra's Pronouns: Elektra is referred to with gender-neutral pronouns, emphasizing inclusivity and broadening the character's conceptual presence.

Musical Adaptations

The revival features new music and lyrical updates, rejuvenating the classic score while preserving familiar melodies. Noteworthy changes include:

• Character-Specific Songs: Slickoil reintroduces a previously cut song, “High Style, Wide Smile,” bridging transitions between characters.

• Updated Anthems: The coaches' song evolves into "Ich Bin Ich" (I’ve Got Me), transforming from a suggestive number to a feminist anthem.

• Reworked Verses: The title song, "Starlight Express", has modified verses leading into the same recognizable chorus, offering a fresh take without losing the song's identity.

“Starlight Express, like, for the most part, it's the same score you'll recognize, just rejuvenated and updated.” [55:40]

Mickey-Jo also mourns the removal of certain beloved songs, such as "Dinah's Disco," which he personally favored for its unique flair.

Audience Experience and Theatre Logistics

Mickey-Jo provides practical insights into attending the revival at the Troubadour Theatre:

• Location and Accessibility: He advises planning travel with ample time due to the theatre's proximity to Wembley Arena and Stadium, which can cause congestion at Wembley Park Underground Station.

• Seating Recommendations: The auditorium offers varied seating options catering to different viewing preferences. Front seats provide an immersive, close-up experience with opportunities like high-fiving performers during special moments, while rear seats offer a broader overview.

“If you want to see everything in a very like big overview kind of a way, and you don't care about being close enough to see the facial expressions of the human beings playing trains, then the rear block of seating may be the one for you.” [1:05:25]

• Merchandise and Refreshments: Although photography is restricted, Mickey-Jo notes the availability of themed merchandise and signature cocktails, enhancing the overall theatre-going experience.

Final Thoughts and Upcoming Reviews

Mickey-Jo concludes the episode by expressing his enthusiasm for revisiting the production once it officially opens. He promises a comprehensive video review, urging listeners to subscribe and activate notifications to stay updated.

“I am so excited to go back and see a press performance of this show and create a full video review for you here on YouTube.” [1:10:00]

He invites audience engagement through comments, encouraging viewers to share their experiences and thoughts while maintaining a spoiler-free environment.

Conclusion

This detailed examination by Mickey-Jo offers theatre enthusiasts an in-depth preview of the Starlight Express revival's new direction. From innovative design and costume enhancements to thoughtful character and musical revisions, the production appears to balance respect for its roots with contemporary updates. Mickey-Jo's insights serve as a valuable guide for potential attendees and fans eager to witness this iconic musical's evolution on the West End stage.

Notable Quotes:

• “I simply got tickets through a friend of a friend. And the mindset that I went into that performance with was one of enormous intrigue.” [00:45]

• “The auditorium feels very different and is very differently configured in terms of the seating for a handful of reasons.” [15:30]

• “The way that train features have been incorporated into these costumes is subtler.” [25:00]

• “It's exactly what you would expect a Luke Shepard directed version of Starlight Express to be.” [35:00]

• “Hydra fulfills the same role that Dustin the Big Hopper did, but with a very different approach and characterization.” [45:15]

• “Starlight Express, like, for the most part, it's the same score you'll recognize, just rejuvenated and updated.” [55:40]

• “If you want to see everything in a very like big overview kind of a way, and you don't care about being close enough to see the facial expressions of the human beings playing trains, then the rear block of seating may be the one for you.” [1:05:25]

• “I am so excited to go back and see a press performance of this show and create a full video review for you here on YouTube.” [1:10:00]

For more detailed insights and the upcoming full review, ensure you're subscribed to MickeyJoTheatre on YouTube and stay tuned for the latest updates on this exciting Starlight Express revival.