Marry Me A Little
St James Studio
Reviewed on Friday 1st August 2014
★★★★
Made up of previously unheard Sondheim songs which didn't make it into some of his biggest musicals, Marry Me A Little is a stunning little show bursting with charm and depth.
Completely sung through, cast members Simon Bailey and Laura Pitt-Pulford both give masterful performances. The show runs for just an hour, but I would have happily stayed and watched this formidable pair perform Sondheim's music all night.
Marry Me A Little is brought together by a subtle story of two strangers who are home alone on a Saturday night with hopes, dreams and desires. The show has such heart and flows smoothly from beginning to end. Developed by Craig Lucas and Norman Rene, I have absolutely no idea why this piece hasn't been seen in London for almost twenty years.
For some reason until two months ago I had never seen a show inside the St James Studio; now I can't stay away. It is the most elegant studio space I have ever visited and makes the perfect home for Hannah Chissick's sharp production with musical direction by David Randall.
To say Laura Pitt-Pulford is a versatile and talented stage actress with the most incredible voice imaginable would be the understatement of the year. Technically her vocal talents are out of this world - there is seemingly no note she cannot hit. Simon Bailey is also an extremely gifted performer and it is a treat to see him perform in such an intimate space so we can appreciate the mesmerising detail in his portrayal. Pitt-Pulford and Bailey's chemistry couldn't be stronger.
Pitt-Pulford's rendition of the title number is heavenly and provides the highlight of the evening. I do not understand why these songs didn't make it into the shows they were originally intended for. Sondheim fans - you do not want to miss this production which is certainly deserving of future life.
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins
Marry Me A Little runs at the St James Studio until Sunday 10th August 2014.
Please visit www.stjamestheatre.co.uk for further information and tickets.
Photo Credit: Roy Tan
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