Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre – "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (Ambassadors Theatre, West End) ★★★★★ Review
Host: MickeyJoTheatre
Episode Release Date: November 29, 2024
Podcast Title: MickeyJoTheatre
YouTube Channel: MickeyJoTheatre
Subscribers: 60,000+
Introduction
In this episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre delivers a comprehensive and enthusiastic review of the new West End musical, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," currently playing at the Ambassadors Theatre in London. Despite missing the official press night in early November due to being abroad, Mickey-Jo expresses his anticipation and excitement for the show, highlighting its significance in the theatre landscape for 2024.
Notable Quote:
"I already had an inkling this was going to be one of the most special shows of the year." [00:00]
Narrative and Storyline
Mickey-Jo delves into the unique narrative of this adaptation, emphasizing that although it shares its title with F. Scott Fitzgerald's story and the subsequent film, it diverges significantly in plot and setting. The musical is set in Cornwall, a small fishing village, and explores the life of Benjamin Button, a man who ages in reverse.
Key Points:
- Setting: Transplanted from America to Cornwall, creating a quaint, time-capsule-like village that evolves with the times except for major events like World War II.
- Character Development: Benjamin is born in the attic of his parents, who keep him secluded due to his unusual condition. His fascination with the moon becomes a central motif throughout his life.
- Plot Structure: The story unfolds through significant moments in Benjamin’s life, particularly his evolving relationship with Elohin, a local girl. The narrative also explores his strained relationship with his family after the tragic loss of his daughter, leading him to America in search of a cure.
Notable Quote:
"When Jethro Compton adapted it, he transplanted the action to his native Cornwall, to a small fishing village." [05:30]
Themes and Insights
Mickey-Jo highlights the profound themes embedded within the musical, focusing on humanity, the passage of time, and the enduring value of family and authentic love. The reverse aging of Benjamin serves as a poignant metaphor for life's unpredictable journey and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones.
Key Themes:
- Time and Tide: Symbolizes the unstoppable flow of time, with recurring references to water and the moon representing the natural cycles that govern life.
- Love and Relationships: The central love story between Benjamin and Elohin is portrayed as both inevitable and tragically doomed, reflecting the complexities of relationships strained by unusual circumstances.
- Family Dynamics: Explores the impact of Benjamin’s condition on his familial relationships, particularly his relationship with his son and father, culminating in emotional reconciliation.
Notable Quote:
"It teaches us so much about humanity... not to take time for granted." [12:45]
Creative Choices
Direction and Writing
Mickey-Jo praises Jethro Compton, who serves as the writer, director, and set designer. His multifaceted role brings a cohesive and deeply human storytelling approach, focusing on character development over supernatural explanations.
Key Points:
- Writing: Emphasizes humanity over the supernatural, using water as a recurring motif symbolizing time and life’s unpredictability.
- Direction: Utilizes the ensemble effectively to build a strong sense of community on stage, enhancing the narrative’s emotional depth.
Notable Quote:
"Jethro Compton is responsible for many of these creative contributions... every single one of these creative contributions is so glorious." [22:10]
Set and Costume Design
The set transforms seamlessly between various locations within the village, utilizing elements like wooden planks, netting, and lighting to create a dynamic and enchanted atmosphere. Anna Kelce as the costume and associate stage designer complements the rugged, fairy-tale aesthetic with practical yet evocative costumes.
Notable Quote:
"Each act begins with a billow of smoke... it's a masterpiece of wooden planks and wonky angles and netting." [28:40]
Music and Orchestration
Darren Clark, the composer, brings a folk-inspired score that blends strings, woodwinds, and percussion to create a rousing yet haunting musical landscape. The music underscores the narrative's emotional beats, enhancing the storytelling with its lyrical depth and nautical motifs.
Key Points:
- Musical Style: Folk music's inherent theatricality suits the show's themes of storytelling and enchantment.
- Instrumentation: Incorporates traditional folk instruments, adding to the authentic and immersive experience.
Notable Quote:
"Darren also has spoken about rejecting the idea of clocks and this mechanical understanding of time and leaning into the idea of the tide." [35:00]
Performances
Leading Roles
Mickey-Jo lauds the performances of John Daglish as Benjamin Button and Claire Foster as Elohin, highlighting their subtle and transformative portrayals.
John Daglish (Benjamin Button):
- Performance: Demonstrates remarkable physicality and emotional depth, convincingly portraying Benjamin at various ages without relying on makeup or prosthetics.
- Impact: His ability to embody different stages of Benjamin’s life engages the audience's suspension of disbelief seamlessly.
Claire Foster (Elohin):
- Performance: Exhibits a vibrant and joyous portrayal of Elohin, balancing her character’s evolution with authentic emotional expression.
- Chemistry: Her interactions with John Daglish create a compelling and heartfelt love story that anchors the narrative.
Notable Quotes:
"He is convincing at every single stage and never once is it a Heavy handed portrayal of age." [46:15]
"Claire seems to make fresh, spontaneous acting choices that keep her character vibrant and relatable." [54:30]
Supporting Cast
The ensemble, including Matthew Burns, Jonathan Charles, Una Cox, Katie Ellis, Anna Fordham, Philippa Hogg, Damen James, Elliot McKenzie, Anne Marcuson, Jack Cordon, and Benedict Salter, provides strong support, each delivering nuanced performances that enrich the storytelling.
Highlights:
- Jack Quarten as Jack Trenlee: Offers a charmingly foolish performance with amusing running gags.
- Anna Fordham as Lokran: Delivers a confident portrayal that evolves seamlessly with the character’s growth.
- Benedict Salter as Benjamin's Father: Adds emotional weight and depth to the family dynamics.
Notable Quote:
"They are every bit as good as each other, offering the most subtle, meaningful, nuanced and layered depiction of their characters." [59:00]
Conclusion and Recommendations
Mickey-Jo concludes with high praise, deeming "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" potentially the best new British musical of the year. He anticipates success at the Olivier Awards and urges listeners to experience the show firsthand.
Key Recommendations:
- Unmissable Theater: Emphasizes the show's emotional resonance, creative brilliance, and outstanding performances as must-sees.
- Audience Engagement: Encourages viewers to share their thoughts and engage with the content through comments and subscriptions.
Notable Quote:
"Please go and see the Curious Case of Benjamin Button at the Ambassadors Theater in the West End. I would consider this an unmissable piece of theater." [1:05:20]
Final Thoughts
Mickey-Jo’s review not only celebrates the artistic achievements of "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" but also underscores the evolving landscape of theatre criticism. Through his detailed analysis and heartfelt recommendations, he offers listeners a vivid glimpse into a standout production that blends traditional storytelling with innovative creative elements.
Stay Connected:
- Subscribe to MickeyJoTheatre on YouTube: MickeyJoTheatre
- Follow on Podcast Platforms: Ensure you follow MickeyJoTheatre wherever you listen to podcasts to stay updated on future reviews and content.
Final Quote:
"Have a Stagey Day." [1:10:00]