Unbound, British Youth Music Theatre
Written by Roni for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.
British Youth Music Theatre (BYMT) are back with a brand new musical presented at Birmingham Hippodrome as part of their summer season, which aligns nicely with the Hippodrome’s title of ‘Home of New Musical Theatre’. A group of talented youths under the age of 21 have come together to produce the show in just two weeks alongside industry professionals with the hope of creating something special, and they may well have done just that.
Unbound tells of a town with no tolerance for outsiders, whether in the 18th century or the present day. Sheltered Iris has been kept hidden in her home for 17 years but is finally embarking on her biggest adventure – high school. Soon swept up in bonfires and pep rallies, Iris ignores the advice of her mother and best friend Dani to try and fit in with the cool kids, a choice which leads her to discover Lucille. Once an outsider herself, Lucille was chased away by the town because of her magical powers – something that Iris also possesses. Together, they plan revenge on the people who dismissed and taunted them – but just how far is Iris willing to go to belong?
The real stand-out selling point of this show is its bewitching soundtrack. Right from the off it is not afraid to establish its sound – think 80’s, heavy electric guitar and synth spun down a deliciously dark path. There’s a fantastically wicked tone set through the score, appearing to be influenced by the likes of Heathers and Carrie, which is not a negative considering the incredible music those shows possess. Each song lands incredibly well within the story and with the audience, no mean feat for an entirely original soundtrack that has not been heard before, which is a credit to this phenomenal young cast and their equally stunning band.
Creatively, the show seems well written and put together, a credit to writer and composer Matthew Harvey. There are however a few questionable directorial choices that do unfortunately detract from the show. The decision to have the cast constantly entering and exiting via the stairs in the auditorium is bold, and whilst this could be due to spacing issues, it is quite distracting as an audience member to have your seat shaking from the footsteps of cast members. Similarly, whilst the age of the cast may have an affect on the way a script is performed, there was a confusing clash between odd bits of dialogue and song delivered with a strong American accent, and the rest being delivered in the casts native accents. However, these were minor takeaways to be improved upon from a show in its infancy of development that is otherwise incredibly strong for the position it is in.
This cast are incredible, and it is hard to believe that some of them are not seasoned West End performers. The ensemble certainly knows how to hit their marks, remaining composed and professional even through some mic issues. Special mentions must go to the supporting principal cast; Harry Butcher, Jake Claydon, Noah Gence and Lauren McGreevy in particular are every part of the typical high school clique. Emily Batchelor strikes a chord as Dani, provoking genuine laughs from the audience with her timing and delivery, as well as providing some gorgeous vocals during her solo number. The two leading ladies, however, absolutely steal the show. Islay Suzanne Woolfenden is devilishly good as Lucille, capturing an evil essence with ease. Likewise, Lucy May Walton as Iris is sincere and captivating, while both flex some impressive voices which complement Harvey’s songs perfectly.
Overall, this is an extremely exciting piece of new musical theatre. There’s a real spark within the score that carries the show and has the audience spellbound. Whilst some of the writing and direction could perhaps use some work, it is not detrimental to the promise the show exudes. Keep an eye on this one - a big future surely awaits…
★ ★ ★ ★
