Review by Amelia
Ticket was gifted in return for an honest review
Hot Mess is an original pop musical by Ellie Coote (book & direction) and Jack Godfrey (music & lyrics), portraying the relationship between two cosmic figures: ‘Earth’ and ‘Humanity’. They act as a metaphor for the climate crisis and a love affair that just goes wrong. Having picked up major awards and praise at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival earlier this year, the production rolls on to London soil, probably far more environmentally detrimental than the soil of Scotland.
Playing at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant, which is a smaller space, the show feels more intimate than big-West-End musicals. But how can of the world’s most urgent challenges be interwoven with the complexities of love? Let’s see…
 |
| Photo by Helen Murray |
Led by musical theatre stars Tobias Turley and Danielle Steers, this production feels destined to soar before it even begins. Steers continues to prove herself as one of the standout performers of her generation; her voice is truly incomparable, and she radiates a star quality that’s almost impossible to describe. Having seen her in many of her previous roles, it’s wonderful to see her bring such playfulness and charm to this performance, balanced with her trademark confidence and flair. Her embodiment of ‘Earth’ feels both authentic and effortlessly believable - honestly, the world would be a better place if she really were in charge.
Turley, meanwhile, is perfectly cast opposite her. He begins as a shy, endearing presence before blossoming into a confident and inventive version of ‘Humanity’. His journey mirrors the changes - and challenges - we see happening to our planet at an alarming rate. Together, Turley and Steers are a flawless pairing, leading this bold, otherworldly production with warmth, humour, and undeniable chemistry.
 |
| Photo by Helen Murray |
The show tackles serious themes in a fun way (relationship, climate, humanity) rather than straight drama, which is refreshing in amongst many hard hitting theatrical pieces. The pop sound, although common in today’s musical climate, feels refreshing and different enough from its predecessors. Godfrey’s score feels like a vibrant blend of the best pop-infused musicals the West End has seen over the past decade, with each number proving just as infectious as the last. It’s exciting to see that three songs have already been released as part of a studio cast recording, and I can only hope a full album follows soon.
The set and costume designer is Shankho Chaudhuri, and she has not held back on the scale of this production despite the relatively small space. There’s clever use of layers and textures to reflecting the shifting relationship between Earth and Humanity. The inventive nature of the set links to the playfulness of the piece, and fits the pop vibes perfectly. This takes a turn, which is reflected in the costume design; beginning as cheerful and romantic, moving into more serious, darker territory as the relationship (and climate metaphor) evolves. I can’t imagine many people walking away without a smile. If you’re into love, sci-fi, pop bangers, or a healthy dose of cheeky humour, this one’s got your name on it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hot Mess: A New Musical plays at Southwark Palyhouse Elephant until the 8th of November - there’s no ‘figuring it out tomorrow’, get tickets today!
Tickets for Hot Mess are available from https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/hot-mess/
 |
| Photo by Helen Murray |
Post a Comment