3 August 2023 I 19:30 I Curve Theatre, Leicester I AD - PR Invite
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The new jukebox musical La Bamba! leaps onto the stage of Leicester's Curve Theatre, and immediately demonstrates an outpour of love, passion and remembrance. Audiences are introduced to an emotionally stirring war between tradition and the modern day, placing Latin American heritage at the heart of life. Songs such as Livin' La Vida Loca and On The Floor are instantly recognisable, though it is wholly investing as these hits are transformed in another light, moving away from simply performing the original record. An impressive multilingual score is utilised, and although not all language is understood myself, the intensity of emotion through the actor's expression is beautifully felt.
Named after the single from the late Ritchie Valens, La Bamba! follows Sofia's (Inês Fernandez) music journey, beginning as a shy ukulele playing child from Mexico to an international sensation overnight, despite the sacrifices she is forced to make along the way. It quickly becomes a flurry of emotion, and the gorgeously seamless transitions help to define this. Sofia has a semi narrative role which breaks the fourth wall, working very well to get an insight beyond face value. Through a younger version of herself across infrequent scenes, we see the spirit of music infused through life. Coming round in a satisfying cyclical structure, a heart-warming and altogether uplifting story arc is represented, where music carries through generations. By mirroring older and younger versions of our central character, the innocence and naivety of entering a vicious world of media is intimidating. Exploring the unfortunate relevance of racial / cultural discrimination, even in the 21st century, curates a story meant to be told. It honours Ritchie Valens' memory, equally to the event of the Day Of The Dead, to celebrate and honour his inspiration on the music world.
There is a kind of parallel between Valens and Ricardo's influence on Sofia's tumultuous success. Portrayed by Strictly star Pasha Kovalev, Sofia's father serves as a reminder on the transience of life, and how the essence of spirit never truly leaves. The intimate sequences of choreo between himself and Fernandez is where he particularly shines, with very gentle and nurturing expression to reiterate the immediate significance of family. The show introduces Stefani Ariza as Sofia's mother Elena, and she delivers the role with incredible love and tenderness, representing a mum's protective qualities that indeed some audiences members can relate to. Ariza holds a lot of the comedic lines, and her potential to reignite her daughter's Latin heritage proves her vital role for owning one's self. For certain traditions, she subtly educates the audience on these, which I am incredibly grateful for, to be immersed into these pockets of love. The theme of home and belonging is especially effervescent through Justin Williams' set design, admiring Latin American architecture where historically, family is at the heart of everything. A mural spans across the back panel of the stage, which to me symbolises an appreciation of the women in Mexican culture, a really nice touch.
Inês Fernandez is the true definition of a triple-threat as Sofia Martinez, a pop powerhouse who is ultimately overwhelmed by the pressures of fame. She commands the stage, not necessarily always with power, but an attentiveness and enchanting allure that makes you believe in every performance. Alike Sofia, Fernandez is a rising star in the theatrical world, and it is beyond a pleasure to see her lead a phenomenal ensemble with such confidence. A highlight of her performance is Hips Don't Lie, where her Latina pride and heritage is progressively stripped from her at the cost of fame, forcing heart-breaking decisions that shouldn't have to be made. I absolutely have to give praise to Jack Weir's lighting design for this moment, among many. The sinister backlighting, slowly lowering in darkness as a reflection of Sofia's spirit being drained is a haunting sight. Lighting across the whole musical is perhaps one of my favourite designs I've ever seen, creating such vivid atmosphere, from simulating the daunting audition room process to the hostility of paparazzi, these compliment the stage action with such clear intent. Siva Kaneswaran gives us the ultimate best friend in Mateo, acting as a brilliant response of standing for one's culture, fighting for action towards the end of Act 1's Let's Get Loud protest, incredibly punchy and fiery to stand up for equality against American ignorance. Kaneswaran's theatre debut is tremendous, especially with his gorgeous vocals, an absolute hit with the ladies. You can feel the seats moving with the undeniably lively beat!
Primarily as a dance musical, the choreography of La Bamba!, led by Graziano Di Prima, Erica Da Silva and Giada Lini (assoc.) is unbelievably strong, lending itself to some outstanding showstoppers. And despite it looking tremendously challenging, every performance from the wider ensemble is executed with such ease. I find it interesting to see as the style of choreo during Act 2 becomes increasingly aggressive and sharper, especially during numbers such as On The Floor, demonstrating Sofia's vulnerability. Alongside the discriminatory factors within the music industry, Luke Jarvis really stands out as an overly menacing Producer, attitudes refusing to change at the sake of popularity. This manipulative nature allows Jarvis' antagonising role to make audiences angry and passionate for change. Danica Pickett Casting absolutely deserves recognition for a wonderfully diverse line-up of performers to celebrate Latin American culture in a touring theatre setting, which is rarely seen, yet an inspirational achievement. It is impossible not to fall in love with this incredibly talented group, with a megamix to round the show off to celebrate the entire cast equally and get audiences on their feet!
I wanted to say a huge thank you to Leicester's Curve Theatre for inviting me to such a spectacular new musical, and it feels a privilege to see such an infectiously enjoyable show for my first ever press night for Jackstage! Ray Roderick's La Bamba! promises beyond an incredible future, and I really hope that it takes the UK by storm! The story tells the tale of Sofia Martinez, growing up with the passion of music and dance in her soul. We are invited to explore her family, her cultural celebrations of life and homeliness. Music is seen to infuse life and joy, bringing everyone together, and I have no doubt it will have the exact same impact on audiences!
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