Perfectly in keeping with the summer season, fringe hot spot the Landor Theatre presents this classic Rodgers and Hammerstein evergreen. Unfortunately neither June, or much else for that matter, is busting out all over in this production. Heaving along slowly like a bus in central London traffic, pivotal moments of the story are brushed over as the direction lacks detail, finesse and a through-line. The opening in particular is confusingly condensed, the panto-style choreography too predictable and rather heavily executed. Costumes perplexingly range across various periods from Little House on the Prairie frocks to modern day office-style attire. The cast, consisting of mainly recent Mountview alumni, is frankly hit and miss. As key players try and avoid a trip to A and E, ducking dangling lighting equipment performing on awkwardly raised sets, it is clear that some are simply out of their depth. Highlights include Charlotte Moore’s stand-out portrayal as Irish Carousel owner Mrs Mullin, while Iddon Jones is a likeable and competent Enoch Snow. Notable triple-threat Lee-Dillon Stuart throws in a charming De Niro-style performance as the baddie and Chelsea Corfield’s portrayal of Carrie is positive and energetic - if rather too forced. Vocally, the cast generally does not do this magnificent score justice. Regrettably, a rather tedious and two-dimensional affair.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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