The Stage

Starlight Express - The 3rd Dimension

Published Monday 8 November 2004 at 15:40 by Jenny Ryan

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much-loved musical returns to tour the UK for the first time, rejigged for a new century and given the subtitle The 3rd Dimension.

Even taking into account that this show can never have the same impact it must have had on its first audiences, it is still somewhat underwhelming. In comparison to other musicals, it suffers from an ultra-light plot and lack of absolute showstopping numbers. Although back in 1984 it must have seemed like the future of theatre, even with its updated features it seems stuck in the past.

Representing the train races are short 3-D films. This is hardly cutting edge technology and soon loses its novelty. The opportunity is also missed to break from rollerskating - the popularity of skateboarding and scootering could have been seized upon. This is not to say that the cast are not an excellent ensemble.

The standout performances are from James Gillan, who makes an endearing Rusty, and Anton Stephens as Poppa, whose deep soulful singing tingles the spine. Mykal Rand as a delightfully camp Electra and Tanya Robb’s Dolly Parton-esque Dinah are both splendid. Also the three Hip-Hoppers - the most successful 3rd Dimension update - who lift the second act with breakdancing and an Eminem-style opening rap.

Arlene Phillips’ production is still spectacular but not quite spectacular enough for today’s audiences of technophiles. Nonetheless, Starlight Express is still phenomenally popular and is tremendously fun accessible theatre for all the family - especially young train buffs.