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Writer's pictureJack Davey

101 Dalmatians Review (Curve Theatre, Leicester, AD - PR Invite)


23 July 2024 I 19:00 I Curve Theatre, Leicester I AD - PR Invite

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


I went in with little expectations towards Buckhurst's 101 Dalmatians, only having seen snippets of the films. But where this production is undoubtedly enjoyable for fans, I discovered a tale to pull at the heartstrings with such tender love. Resilience defines a company of multi-talented performers, delivering waves of goosebumps and teary eyes from me. I would never have thought I'd become so emotionally invested. But with a wholesome ending that leaves your cheeks hurting from smiling, I only want to revisit again and again!


Based on Dodie Smith's 1956 creation (and many future adaptations), Zinnie Harris brings this current musical tour to theatres following a controversial perception at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. This production has an entirely new life, a unique spin on an internationally renowned story but still remains warmly familiar. A revised caricature of the infamous fashion hungry, campy villain is irresistibly fun, where you will be just as addicted as Cruella De Vil is to puppies!


The spotlight is on Jimmy Grimes' puppetry design this evening, and what an outstanding job this direction takes! Audiences encounter an array of furry friends from poodles, bulldogs and of course the beloved dalmatian. The attention to craftsmanship is inspiring, each puppet having its own personality, notably the slinky felines that cause pleasant mischief!


Leading the performances as Pongo and Perdi, Benedict Hastings and Emma Thornett are simply spectacular, combining acting, singing and puppeteering in immense talent. It is so easy to believe the life in the animals, where the magic of theatre really comes through. And there is the most adorable surprise at the end, you just have to be there!!


Faye Tozer, of Steps fame, features as the iconic Cruella De Vil in Leicester (and select venues), where she struts, laughs and belts with such wicked presence! Everything about Tozer's performance is so well considered, where the subtle delusion builds to a hilarious climax. She really allows herself to be exposed on stage, which allows De Vil to reach her ultimate potential. The crazed finale holds tension, yet doesn't scare as a brilliant experience for any age.


The above solidifies what is crucially perfect about Johnny McKnight's script, combined with Douglas Hodge's lyrical work. There is a splendid mix of mature and childish jokes, where every scene has incredibly clever text work. I am so impressed with how balanced the writing is, hysterically laughable yet sincere in deeper messages. Danny Hendrix and Charles Brunton's Jasper & Casper are shining examples of this humour, charming in their playfulness and slapstick physicalisations.


Where the animals of the musical share endearing love, Danielle and Tom (Jessie Elland & Samuel Thomas) additionally have a lovely adoration as human counterparts. The initially awkward relationship blossoms, and where both humans and dogs unite as a family is where it hits the heart. The pair perform with wonderful energy, and I would really love to see them in future shows, both very promising!!


I hope that my review can somewhat encapsulate my absolute love for this tour of 101 Dalmatians. It just has everything I could ever hope for in a musical theatre production. Hodge's music soars, where I can walk out with numerous songs going round in my head! A huge thank you to the Curve Theatre team for having me back once again, with the most welcoming staff every single time. Come and see Cruella De Vil's ultimate comeuppance, guaranteed to knock your spots off!!

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