Review: The Mikado at the Charing Cross Theatre

The Mikado
Charing Cross Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 2nd December 2014
★★★

If you can't face seeing another panto, Gilbert and Sullivan's The Mikado makes the perfect alternative. It is joyfully silly, providing just over two hours of light hearted fun. Although Thom Southerland's production may not be as "radically re-conceived" as promotional material suggests (this version is set in the 1930s), it gleams with charm and bursts with delight.

Complete with a costume to rival any panto villain, Rebecca Caine is sensational as Katisha. Her presence is demanding and her vocals soar; she absolutely steals the show. The other principal cast - including Mark Heenehan as The Mikado, Jacob Chapman as Pish-Tush, Leigh Coggins as Yum-Yum and Matthew Crowe as Nanki-Poo - are also strong.

There are certainly several questionable moments, particularly during ensemble numbers. The choreography is simple and not as tight as it could be. There may be awkward moments, but with the fun tone of the piece it doesn't always matter too much. I was smiling throughout and left the Charing Cross Theatre in a very good mood. 

Gilbert and Sullivan's score is as irresistible as ever. I don't want to spoil too much, but 'the list' has been given a contemporary makeover and is absolutely hysterical (with masterful mentions to TOWIE as well as the Myleene Klass vs Ed Balls debate plus much more).

If you're looking for an easy evening at the theatre and just want a good old-fashioned laugh then go and see The Mikado. It is certainly one of my favourite Charing Cross Theatre productions.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

The Mikado runs at the Charing Cross Theatre until Saturday 3rd January 2015.
Please visit www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk for further information and tickets.

Photo Credit: Scott Rylander

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