The all-singing, all-dancing spectacular musical 42nd Street taps its way to Kilworth House Theatre. This gem of a theatre set in the Leicestershire countryside once again stages West End-worthy work.
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| The company of 42nd Street. |
42nd Street is a dazzling celebration of the lives and passions of performers striving to leave their mark on the iconic stages of Broadway, with a brilliant book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, enchanting music by Harry Warren, and captivating lyrics by Al Dubin. This new production under the direction and choreography of Lee Proud brings to life the timeless story that originated from the 1932 novel and the classic 1933 film.
The musical gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse as director Julian Marsh is preparing for his latest show, Pretty Lady, ahead of opening night. As tensions grow, stars rise, and a show must go on attitude makes sure the show does get to open on time. The musical features iconic Broadway numbers including 'We're In The Money', 'Lullaby of Broadway', and the title song '42nd Street'.
Leading the Kilworth company is Mia Kobayashi as Peggy Sawyer. She shines throughout with a real charm and glow to her performance. There is often a lot going on around Sawyer, but your focus is constantly drawn to Kobayashi. Right from her first steps, it's clear that Kobayashi is a hugely talented dancer. She effortlessly nails every movement with speed. Vocally, she also carries magnificent vocals that impress. A real triple-threat performance.
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| Mia Kobayashi (Peggy Sawyer) and Lewis Griffiths (Julian Marsh) |
Lewis Griffiths plays director Julian Marsh with a real unbreakable attitude. He does a fine job of showing Marsh's staunch determination as a perfectionist in his craft. He only shows cracks of humanity when interacting with Sawyer in the latter scenes. Although there is a slightly uncomfortable kissing sequence which doesn’t quite land. The charismatic Michelle Bishop plays Dorothy Brock. She is possibly the strongest Brock I've seen to date. Bishop nails the role with a divalike attitude, which also shows the layers of who she really is underneath in the second act.
Brian O’Muiri brings plenty of charm to Billy Lawlor, the leading man in the company, and dances and sings elegantly. While the delightful Rosie Strobel as Maggie Jones and TJ Lloyd as Bert Barry bring some larger-than-life work as the two writers of Pretty Lady. They have a blast with the comedic 'Shuffle Off To Buffalo' in the second act. Pete Gallagher as Abner Dillon and Tim Rogers as Pat Denning both do a good job as the two contrasting men in Dorothy Brock's life.
The impressive ensemble boasts an array of captivating performers, including the stand-out Katharine Pearson as Anytime Annie and Cris Penfold as Andy Lee. The company features Issie Wilman, Tia Gyngell, Esme Kennedy, Imogen Bailey, Danielle Huntley, Dammi Aregbeshola, Bradley Trevethan, Chris Gray, Benjamin Drew, Joseph Bristow, Theo Uk Rose, and Mark Austin, each adding their own sparkle to the production. The vibrant choreography by Lee Proud is danced with real skill by all.
The musical supervision and direction by Rick Coates really make the music sing. An impressive off-stage 10-piece orchestra sounds sensational throughout. Chris Whybrow's crystal clear sound enriches the music but also the vocals of the company.
The set and costume designs by Phillip Witcomb transport the audience to the vibrant world of Broadway, and the glamour of the world is well imagined with sparkle. The design is cleverly thought out within the confines of the space. Jason Taylor's lighting design comes to life more in the second act as the night closes in. His rich colour palette adds real vaudeville razzle-dazzle to the production.
Kilworth House Theatre adds another hugely impressive production to add to their 18-year history of magnificent West End or Broadway-worthy productions. 42nd Street is a foot-stomping delight, the sort of production that reminds you why musical theatre can be so uplifting and joyous. It also serves as a reminder to the people behind the actors you see on stage.
Here you have a sublime company, a sizzling orchestra, and a superb story, making this an enchanting evening in this fabulous setting. You leave wanting to grab a pair of tap shoes and dance the night away. Total glamorous escapism.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
42nd Street plays at Kilworth House Theatre until Sunday, 13th July 2025. Tickets are available from https://www.kilworthhouse.co.uk/kilworth-house-theatre/what-s-on/42nd-street/
The venue also stages Grease with the same creative team. The production runs from Tuesday, 29th July until Sunday, 7th September. Tickets are available from https://www.kilworthhouse.co.uk/kilworth-house-theatre/
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| Michelle Bishop (Dorothy Brock) |
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