Great review. I have to admit I don’t really like jukebox musicals as a rule - given a choice I’d always go for original music tailored to the storyline. Having said that, I think this is about as good as jukebox musicals get and I think the songs have been used in a really interesting way, as ‘moods’ rather than trying to force them to work as exposition. Also, some fantastic orchestration means the songs have really taken on a new feel compared to Hawley’s originals, and they support the dramatic situation beautifully. Chris Bush’s script is brilliant - she develops the characters in detail, meaning that the lack of specificity in the songs doesn’t matter too much. It’s a very original piece of theatre and I’d urge anyone to see it.
Thanks for your comment! This show has been on my ‘to see before it closes’ list but I was a bit put off in finding out it was a jukebox musical and I’ve been debating whether I really want to see it.
Great review. I have to admit I don’t really like jukebox musicals as a rule - given a choice I’d always go for original music tailored to the storyline. Having said that, I think this is about as good as jukebox musicals get and I think the songs have been used in a really interesting way, as ‘moods’ rather than trying to force them to work as exposition. Also, some fantastic orchestration means the songs have really taken on a new feel compared to Hawley’s originals, and they support the dramatic situation beautifully. Chris Bush’s script is brilliant - she develops the characters in detail, meaning that the lack of specificity in the songs doesn’t matter too much. It’s a very original piece of theatre and I’d urge anyone to see it.
Yes!
Thanks for your comment! This show has been on my ‘to see before it closes’ list but I was a bit put off in finding out it was a jukebox musical and I’ve been debating whether I really want to see it.
@@rebeccalouisewillson definitely go! It’s really very moving, and frequently extremely funny as well.
Great review and now I am trying to get a ticket to see it before it comes to its end. Missed it first time round at the National.
So much good theatre coming out of Sheffield the last couple of years.
I love that both Standing at the Sky’s Edge and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie were not only produced in Sheffield but are rooted in the city.
A truly wonderful piece of theatre !
I thought it was wonderful!