The original story of 101 Dalmatians was written by Dodie Smith and made famous by Walt Disney. Everybody knows the classic 1961 Disney film but if you don’t remember much of the plot, you will remember beautiful hand drawn animation and a stellar intro (think lots of paw prints moving to a jazzy score written by George Bruns and Mel Leven). It was released to critical acclaim and enjoyed by families across the world. 101 Dalmatians The Musical has had a few variations over the last decade, but this production was released in 2022 as part of the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre summer season. It has now commenced its 2024 tour, currently playing at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre. This musical is full of energy, dogs and beautiful puppetry.

The story we all know and love hasn’t been changed much. A man and woman meet when their two Dalmatian dogs intertwine them via their dog leads in the park, they fall in love and the dogs then have puppies. Tom, played by the likeable Samuel Thomas, is a fashion designer and has been asked to design an outfit for Cruella De Vil (played by the charismatic Kym Marsh). Cruella then offers to pay for the puppies to make a fur coat and trouble ensues…

You might be surprised to find that the dogs not only talk in this musical but sing too! Initially, we see a very worn Pongo without a home, he then sings sincerely about wanting to be loved in ‘Take Me Home’. There are then giggles from the audience as they try to digest a singing dog puppet. However, when we are introduced to the various puppets in the dogs home, the singing seems more natural as there is now a deliberate comical element. Throughout the show, the sincerity of the puppets singing various ballads is a little hard to digest, however you can’t deny the talent and skill it takes for our puppeteers to sing, act and bring life to these figures.

The puppets, as you would expect, are a highlight and designed by War Horse’s Jimmy Grimes. The two protagonist dogs and their three key puppies are wonderful and full of life, the cat Tabby who we meet later on in the story is also full of fluffy frivolity. However, there are some minor disappointments. During the kidnapping, when the puppies are placed into the sacks, they immediately stop moving and appear to simply be soft toys, losing magic and impact at a pivotal moment.

Kym Marsh has presence by the bucket load and plays Cruella with the perfect balance of evil and zest, however her vocals are a little inconsistent and Cruella’s big song ‘Animal Lover’ deserves more. The songs don’t seem to be hugely challenging but are pleasant enough, if not particularly memorable. The real star of the show is Emma Thornett who plays the puppet, Perdi; her warmth and motherly presence is felt throughout the show and shines in the second act, when she sings ‘A Thousand Kisses’ to her very poorly pup.

This is a lovely family show and if it were a little shorter (one act would be perfect), it would really shine. However it goes lose focus, particularly in the second act. Having said that, the main puppets are magical and the cast are full of energy and enthusiasm. A wonderful watch with the little ones and you never know, you might meet a real puppy…but don’t expect 101!

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Sophie Eaton

101 Dalmatians plays at The Alexandra until 6 July before continuing its tour. To book tickets for Birmingham and other select touring venues, please click here.