Review: SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD, Upstairs at the Gatehouse

Photo credit: Clarissa Debenham

A song cycle performance is not easy to pull off successfully. Not a traditional musical but not quite a concert either, there is a delicate balance to find between showcasing the strength of the score while also not leaving the audience confused by the overarching themes of the piece.

Thankfully, Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World has never had that problem. Objectively, it is surely one of the most beautiful and inspiring collections of songs in the musical theatre canon. But because it exists as something closer to a song cycle than a musical, it has never quite achieved the acclaim it so richly deserves.

Quite Good Theatre’s production, directed by Kai Wright, is a sparkling example of how to bring a series of songs connected by a single theme - in this case, ‘the moment of decision’ - alive. Be in no doubt, these are big numbers to perform, leaving every sinew of this talented company’s vocal chords well and truly exercised.

The marker is laid down mid-way through the first act when Luke Walsh and Christopher Cameron flaunt their exquisite range in the high-octane soul number ‘The River Won’t Flow’. In fact, as Man 1, Walsh gets little respite and is reaching all kinds of crazy notes once again in the Act 1 closer ‘Steam Train’ and solo ‘King of the World’.

Meanwhile, Eleanore Frances gives an effervescent display as Woman 2, a part which provides some of the biggest laughs in the piece. Frances clearly got the assignment for ‘Just One Step’, the story of a wealthy woman who has climbed onto a window ledge to get her husband’s attention, while she is deliciously wicked as a scornful Mrs Claus in ‘Surabaya-Santa’. It would be great to see her push the boundaries even further in future, with many of her numbers lending themselves to Victoria Hamilton-Barritt-esque high camp.

But it is Lizzy Parker who is the standout. The company of four do a brilliant job of bringing their characters alive - even if just for one song - but Parker is on another level when it comes to taking the audience on the journey with her. A genuine highlight is her take on ‘I’m Not Afraid of Anything’. It is such a touching performance, with Parker making you believe every single word of Brown’s engaging lyrics. She is also a joy to watch throughout the various full company numbers.

However, while Upstairs at the Gatehouse is clearly somewhat of an intimate setting, the set design seems a little clunky and ill-conceived. Of course, there are limitations in such as space but it lacks vibrancy and, while it is a good idea to have props relating to the lyrics, they are not always visible to the audience. Such beige costumes feel rather dreary and uninspired as well.

There is such a depth and energy to Brown’s music that it is impossible not to become totally immersed in its world. Songs for a New World is a glimpse into musical theatre heaven and this latest production from Quite Good Theatre really is a must-see for all fans of the art.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Tom Ambrose

Songs for a New World plays at Upstairs at the Gatehouse until 3 March, with further information here.