Lyndsey Turner’s production brings Roald Dahl’s witches to life in a magical and humorous musical adaptation.
In the world of Roald Dahl’s “The Witches,” these dangerous creatures disguise themselves as ordinary women, plotting to turn Britain’s children into mice. In a new musical adaptation, director Lyndsey Turner brings the story to life with fun, wit, and imagination. With a script by Lucy Kirkwood and enchanting songs by Dave Malloy, the production offers a delightful antidote to enforced female conformity. While the musical may not be as dark as the original book, it still captivates audiences with its charm and humor.
A Captivating Storytelling Experience
The musical adaptation of “The Witches” stays true to the original story, following the journey of young Luke and his eccentric grandmother. Living with his gran, who has an obsession with witches, Luke finds himself in the midst of a coven’s plot to transform children into mice. The story unfolds with captivating storytelling and imaginative visuals, transporting the audience into Dahl’s whimsical universe.
Talented Cast and Engaging Performances
The performances in “The Witches” are strong, with Sally Ann Triplett shining as the libertine gran. Triplett brings a perfect balance of wit and vulnerability to the character, adding depth that wasn’t present in the book. Bertie Caplan delivers a lively performance as Luke, although the tender bond between Luke and his grandmother feels slightly lost. Katherine Kingsley steals the show as the Grand High Witch, exuding dominance and comic menace in her pastel suit.
Enchanting Music and Lyrics
Dave Malloy’s songs, with lyrics by Malloy and Lucy Kirkwood, add an extra layer of magic to the production. While some songs may feel tuneless or repetitive, there are moments of brilliance. “Bruno Sweet Bruno,” a number about a sugar high, gets the feet tapping and showcases Cian Eagle-Service’s sensational singing. Another standout is “Wouldn’t It Be Nice?” sung by Katherine Kingsley as the Grand High Witch, a sultry and menacing anthem against children.
A Whimsical Set Design
Lizzie Clachan’s revolving set smoothly transitions between scenes, enhancing the flow of the production. However, the pace does sag in the second act, relying heavily on Kirkwood’s rollicking humor to keep the audience engaged. The lo-fi cutesiness of the children’s transformations into inanimate objects adds a charming touch, with cardboard costumes and sweet surprises.
Conclusion: “The Witches” musical adaptation brings Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life with enchanting performances, captivating storytelling, and a touch of humor. While it may not capture the darkness of the original book, the production offers a delightful and entertaining experience. With its talented cast, engaging music, and whimsical set design, “The Witches” is a must-see for both fans of the classic tale and newcomers alike.
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