Review: BEDKNOBS & BROOMSTICKS, The Alexandra Birmingham (UK tour)
Photo credit: Johan Persson
It is one of those titles that everyone knows. I was surprised to realise I had never seen the film and so with childlike anticipation, I approached the beautiful Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham. The buzz in the foyer was tangible as both young and old discussed their first experience of the original 1971 Disney musical fantasy film.
Having never seen the film personally, I cannot comment on how it may or may not diverge from the original, therefore some educated guesses are about to take place. However, it can be confirmed that previous knowledge of the plot or film are not necessary when it comes to the enjoyment of this on stage musical transformation. Both the adult and my inner child were thoroughly entertained. Jamie Harrison and Candice Edmunds have lead this touring production into a magical victory.
Harrison’s set pulls you right into the magic of the story from the moment you enter the theatre. A tiny bedroom is surrounded by a mass of black as you witness a small glimpse of the cosy and loving home of Charlie (Conor O’Hara), Carrie and Paul (for this performance Isabella Bucknell and Jasper Hawes). Within seconds, their world and quite literally their home are pulled apart. Two bombed out facades frame the remainder of the show, a constant reminder of the threat of danger. The enemy is never directly named, though it is safe to assume it relates to the Nazi invasion; the current pandemic could very well be alternative interpretation.
A brief run down for those few who do not know the story: three children (in this case newly orphaned) are evacuated out of London to the country. Here they meet Miss Eglantine Price (Dianne Pilkington), an apprentice witch who volunteers their countryside refuge. The children discover that magic is real and set off on an adventure. Travelling via flying bed, the tenacious four collect Emelius Browne (Charles Bruton), a street magician-come-thief and the newly formed unit visit under water lands and escape the London bombs. It’s not a spoiler to say that the adventure brings with it a new sense of family and safety, it is a Disney film after all!
It is appropriate, at this point, to acknowledge one of the largest and most utilised ensembles in a touring production. The ensemble, exquisitely dressed in Gabriella Slade’s designs, unapologetically build and pull apart each set and location in explosive movements as almost everything is made up of a sum of small parts. This action is a reflection of the entire piece. The individual elements are strong with some flaws but when pulled together, the audience get to witness something truly whimsical and magical.
Neil Bartram’s new songs, additional music and lyrics compliments Brian Hill’s book beautifully. I was unable to identify the new amongst the original as the styles blended wonderfully, though hardened film fans may have more to comment on that; potentially one or two of the most popular songs are missing. All principals have depth and an essence of relatability thanks to Hill’s book but some performances come dangerously close to pantomime.
Harrison’s magic is at times a little clumsy, which is surprising as he is also created the magic and illusions for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. That being said, it didn’t detract from the experience; it may have actually enhanced it, with younger audiences filled with wonder and the older ones smiling in knowing. Puppetry is also an incredibly well used tool, with the movements of the puppeteers as enthralling as the puppets themselves.
Bedknobs and Broomsticks is whimsical and magical in equal doses with something to captivate all audiences regardless of age and knowledge of the original film. It is the perfect anecdote for a challenging year and the right dose of magic as we enter the festive period.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Alanna Boden
Tickets are available here, you’d be a fool to miss this one Besties.