St James Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 21st January 2014
Question: What do you get when you cast five of the most renowned performers in musical theatre, give them the music of one of the greatest theatrical composers of all time, gather a young and fresh group of musicians and hire the shiniest new theatre in London?
Answer: A classy, must-see production.
This is the first time a production of Putting It Together, Stephen Sondheim's musical revue, has been staged in London. Known for his unique writing style, whether you love or hate him Sondheim's music is so distinctive, deep and interpretive. At the heart of his greatest songs is such truth. At times I forgot I was watching a revue and stopped thinking 'oh this song is from...' as I found myself so lost in the music and so entranced by the terrific cast.
Any producer would be lucky to have just one of David Bedella, Daniel Crossley, Janie Dee, Damian Humbley or Caroline Sheen in their show, so to have all five is quite something. Each member of the company brings something completely different to the piece; David Bedella is your classic leading man who can even make wondering across a stage look interesting and Daniel Crossley is a true showman, whilst Damian Humbley simply has one of the most effortless and incredible voices in musical theatre. He stole the show with a faultless and heartfelt rendition of 'Marry Me A Little' which left me wanting more. Surely Jean Valjean or The Phantom are beckoning soon for Damian? I'm sure he could sing either in his sleep.
Caroline Sheen fearlessly performs with such detail and can move an audience or have them in hysterics with just a small change of expression. Her soprano range is stunning but she can also belt out a big note or two! Janie Dee is just Janie Dee, a true star. She makes the most wonderful entrance and always performs, moves and dances with such preciseness. Janie does not have a single lazy or sloppy bone in her body and it is worth booking a ticket just to witness her performing the unbelievably wordy 'Not Getting Married Today'. You have got to love Sondheim!
The two highlights are the spectacular act two opener 'Back In Business' and the delicate 'Being Alive'. Alastair Knights' direction and Matthew Rowland's choreography is always simple and always classy. Putting It Together not only provides a joyous evening for Sondheim fanatics, but if you fancy some education in musical theatre I would book a ticket immediately!
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
Read out interviews with Janie Dee and Damian Humbley.
Putting It Together runs at the St James Theatre until 1st February 2014.
Please visit www.stjamestheatre.co.uk for further information and tickets.
Photo Credit: Mike Eddowes
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