Stopping off at Southwark Playhouse for just two weeks, Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell’s meta-musical [title of show] is a love letter to Broadway in one 90-minute show.
Jeff (Thomas Oxley) and Hunter (Jacob Fowler) take on the challenge of writing a new musical from scratch to submit to a new festival in 2004.
With the help of Heidi (Abbie Budden), a perennial understudy/swing, and Susan (Mary Moore), larger than life and stuck in a boring office job, they use their own lives as inspiration.
Writing a show about writing a show is how [title of show] began, with the title inspired by the title prompt on the festival form. Don’t be fooled, though. This isn’t a simple show.
It’s bold in its references to people on Broadway and particularly, in ‘Monkeys and Playbills’, flop shows of the past, ticked off by Heidi and Susan as Hunter struggles to write a lyric.
This is a musical that recognises its world and those within it, leaving you with a warm glow even at the point of adversity and creative difference.
![Production image for [title of show]](https://i0.wp.com/loureviews.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/0x5a2908-edit507720955617746609-300x200.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1)
Although [title of show] is tightly and expertly structured, it still feels new and informal. You can believe these are youngsters seeking attention and fame through their work.
The performers are great. Fowler’s ambitious determination and Oxley’s smooth support are well-defined, while Budden and Moore become allies under the cover of making themselves the focus.
In short, these are four smashes, right there on one stage. Tom Chippendale (‘Larry’, the MD) accompanies the songs and action on the piano with a flourish.
![Production image for [title of show]](https://i0.wp.com/loureviews.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/0x5a3000-edit4939946992386390262-300x200.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1)
Director Christopher D Clegg and set designer Hazel McIntosh make the most of a small stage with four chairs set on raised platforms, and a backdrop that includes lights, theatre memorabilia, and a stage door sign.
Where [title of show] might stumble is in a wider appeal beyond musical theatre fans and afficionados. Much of the humour is within in-jokes and industry references.
It’s a great show for the theatre nerd and those who celebrate work just off the beaten track. With lively choreography and infectious enthusiasm, this offers a fun evening out at a budget price.
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[title of show] continues until 30 Nov at Southwark Playhouse Borough with tickets here.
Image credit: Danny Kaan