Review: HEN NIGHT HORROR, Pavilion Theatre Glasgow
Photo credit: AMD Studios
Five years in the making, the brand-new Scottish musical comedy Hen Night Horror premieres in Glasgow ahead of its Scottish tour.
We see three dynamic, feisty characters who could not be less alike. Amanda, played by Kim Shepherd, is the loved-up, social media-obsessed bride-to-be whose only wish is for her besties to get along and not ruin her hen night. Meanwhile, Louise McCarthy as Lydia and Frances Thorburn as Donna are on the brink of having a square go! Secluded in a remote Highland lodge as the drinks pour, truths come to light, and they realise they may not be alone…
At the helm, writer Fraser Boyle and composer Ali Cleland perfectly complement one another in this production. The script is filled with impeccable Scottish patter, while the music enhances the story, like a musical theatre soundtrack should, creating 80s-sounding pop bangers. The choreography by Chris Stuart Wilson is slick and creative, a great boost to the performances on stage. Tension is built extremely well through the lighting by James Brendan Cusker, sound by David Edmunds and Sam Poulten, and set design by Adrian Rees. The audience is always engaged, laughing and even screaming along when necessary. Although there are a couple of jump-scare moments, perhaps a few more could have been added as the aftermath is hilarious. Overall, however, there are plenty of twists and turns which are totally unpredictable.
The cast are superb and well-directed by Fraser Boyle and Eric Potts. Louise McCarthy has her physical comedy nailed as Lydia. She radiates the energy of your mum’s best mate, who is a wee bit off her rocker. Kim Shepherd has a beautiful voice and her once-composed Amanda becomes increasingly unhinged as the show progresses. In her performance, Frances Thorburn effectively brings out the stoic nature of Donna. Yet, as soon as her deepest secret is revealed, you can’t help but warm to her. We meet Alan Orr as Mr Jeffries, who surprisingly joins the hen night shenanigans, and Matthew McKenna as PC Walters who crashes the party unexpectedly. It is difficult to discuss these characters further to not give too much away, but both have the audience in stitches!
This new Scottish musical comedy by Boyle and Cleland is utterly bonkers, but is endearing and hilarious nonetheless. This duo are definitely one to watch! Comedy horror isn’t often done, especially in a musical format, and the team has pulled it off wonderfully. They understand their audience and how to incorporate the comedy elements to the max. It is the type of show that would excel in a prime-time main stage slot at the Edinburgh Fringe. It is funny, full of character and a great night out!
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Catriona Lamb
Hen Night Horror plays at Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre until this evening (22 June) before touring Scotland. For more info, please click here.