19 July 2024 I 19:30 I Adelphi Theatre, London
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Returning to Back To The Future: The Musical two years following my first watch, I leave with an outstanding impression, where the entirety feels subtly more polished, warming to the Adelphi stage. This time, we experienced the show through the 'McFly Zone' (front-centre stalls), the rock'n'roll energy pushed to you with infectious energy. Enunciation and sound balance drastically betters here, the best way to experience the show! With mostly original songs from Silvestri and Ballard, the 1985 classic is musicalized in all its glory.
However, like myself, you may not have seen any of the movies, which isn't a disadvantage at all, though equally the dream production for die-hard fans. Bob Gale's book is laid out in a simple narrative, making for a fabulous family outing, introducing younger generations to the endless capabilities of theatre... "your kids are gonna love it"! Best expressed through Chris Fisher's illusion design, the fictional possibility of time travel is magical upon the stage, undoubtably impressive with showstopping sequences.
Leading the performance of a lifetime, Ben Joyce's Marty McFly emanates enthusiasm and confidence, an admirable expressiveness through his body language to be truly charismatic. The role is extremely demanding, yet his effortlessness performance makes light work of the material. You cannot help but feel glued to Joyce's presence, undoubtedly an inspiration for many budding actors!
As Doc Brown, Cory English's comedic timing and voice work receives uproars of laughter, and rightfully so, as a wacky and relentless behaviour is compelling in every second. Alongside an incredibly talented ensemble, turning the energy up to 1000, 21st Century is English's defining moment, opening Act Two with exuberant chaos to ensure the flow is maintained post-interval.
There is so much to adore about Tim Hatley's set design, recreating many iconic images. And whether we are immersed in the Enchantment Under The Sea dance, or perhaps knocked back by the DeLorean's epic surprises (backed by Finn Ross' creativity in video design), you simply get lost in every atmosphere. Despite being a smaller West End stage, Hatley's work knows no bounds!
Sarah Goggin's Lorraine and Oliver Nicholas' George share a wonderful dynamic, both shining through Pretty Baby and Put Your Mind To It respectively. Their relationship is theatrical with Nicholas' loveable awkwardness against Goggin's headstrong nature, enjoyable with the humour of contrast.
Jay Perry's Goldie Wilson is a marvellous, unforgettable role allowed to excel under John Rando's direction. Musicality runs through Perry's bloodstream, his vocality remarkable in raising the roof! Married with Chris Bailey's choreography, a consistently sharp energy breathes a unique passion to the musical, opposed to repeating the film to the theatre.
Rounding off the show with a grand finale, Rando's vision is masterfully fun, accessible for all ages as an all round crowd pleaser. Make sure to see this show in the future, you wouldn't want to miss it!
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