Review: THE PARENT AGENCY, Storyhouse Chester
Photo credit: Mark McNulty
World premieres are becoming synonymous with theatres in the North West with the latest being The Parent Agency, which receives its debut at Chester’s Storyhouse. This new family musical has been adapted from the best-selling book of the same name by David Baddiel, with music by The Feeling frontman Dan Gillespie Sells.
Barry is an almost eleven year old boy who longs for a ‘cool’ James Bond themed birthday. He, however, has parents that are poor and boring (according to Barry) and made the shocking decision naming him Barry. He wishes for different parents, those who are rich, energetic and don’t impose any rules. The Parent Agency operates in an alternative universe and are only too happy to help with the aim to find all children the parents that they want before their eleventh birthday. If only it were that simple…
The creative team have really brought the book to life with Baddiel’s text being fast-paced but easy to follow for every age. With many children potentially experiencing theatre for the first time with this production, the source material is filled with humour and heartwarming moments that translate to the stage beautifully. Whilst children will no doubt focus on the lighthearted whimsical moments, parents and older audience members will no doubt take away the deeper meaning of the story which, at its core, is about family and the joy of parenting.
Dan Gillespie Sells’ music has added further life to the already impressive story. Where the music has been implemented, it feels like a natural progression of the narrative. Gillespie Sells’ signature sound is akin to his score for the hugely successful West End musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, with the opening number ‘Barry’ being catchy and later reprised, whilst ‘Everyday Love’ is a beautiful love song from the parents to Barry with a poignant message. Gillespie Sells’ score elevates the story, with a range of genres enhancing the story’s emotional depth and giving the characters' experiences even more resonance.
Carrie-Anne Ingrouille’s choreography is striking and fun throughout. Particular highlights include the inventive physical movement of the cast during a football match at ‘Wobbly Stadium’ for ‘United Kiddom’ and a high octane trampoline workout during ‘Gonna Make You Sweat’ with wannabe parents ‘The Fwhams!’. Sarah Mercadé’s costume design is full of bold colours that are reminiscent of the alternative universe Dr Seuss’ Cat In The Hat whilst having retro elements with distinct psychedelic patterns.
Jon Bausor’s set design is full of life and colour capturing the imagination of children and adults alike, depicting another world well. However, placement of set pieces could be better throughout. Unless sitting centrally, a large set piece depicting ‘The Parent Agency’ office has the tendency to obstruct atmospheric set pieces and more importantly, the video screen in which Barry scouts potential parents - the key element of the story. The Storyhouse has a vast stage and better placement of set pieces as well as transitions between scenes would ensure that this musical is more visually arresting. Having only been open for a matter of days, there is no doubt that this will be implemented further into the production’s run.
The Parent Agency features an exceptional cast of West End stars, and the audiences of Chester are fortunate to witness their talent in this production. For the press night performance, Max Bispham took the lead as Barry, delivering an assured and confident portrayal. It's hard to find a young actor with vocals, natural talent and a stage presence like Bispham's. The Parent Agency is in safe hands with Bispham in the role delighting audiences throughout. As Barry is on stage throughout the performance, Bispham‘s stamina never waivers and he excels at capturing the essence of an eleven-year-old in modern society. His sarcastic flair is flawlessly executed, bringing out the comedy of the piece.
Rebecca McKinnis and Rakesh Boury are hilarious in their portrayals of Barry’s parents (Susan and Geoff), along with the other scouted parents in The Parent Agency. Each set of parents is distinct, from the posh and over-the-top 'Rador-Wellorffs' to the internationally renowned pop stars 'Vlassorina.' McKinnis especially shines in a role far removed from her usual performances, bringing a perfect balance of humour and sublime vocals.
The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, with Elliot Broadfoot nearly stealing every scene as Peevis (amongst others), his passion for the role bursting through with undeniable energy. Louis Wilkins as ‘Boy’ shines with tender vocals as Barry’s friend, showing versatility as he is an alternate Barry during this initial run. Alan Vicary as Grandad and head of TPA provides strong support to the cast throughout, whilst Natasha Cayabyab and Kazmin Borrer excels as Barry’s social media-obsessed, reference-driven sisters and TPA assistants, flawlessly synchronising their movements and dialogue while performing on hoverboards.
While The Parent Agency is currently only slated for three weeks in Chester, it’s easy to see a life beyond the North West for this fun, family musical, perfect for every age to enjoy. The Parent Agency is guaranteed to captivate and spark the imagination of all who watch it.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Jordan Potts
The Parent Agency plays at Chester’s Storyhouse until 2 March, with further info here.