Review: TWO STRANGERS (CARRY A CAKE ACROSS NEW YORK), Kiln Theatre
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is certainly a funny name for a musical but this makes it the perfect fit for this hilarious and heartwarming new show.
When Dougal travels to New York for his dad’s second wedding, Robin, the sister of the bride, is waiting for him at the airport. Dougal is a dorky and energetic Brit and Robin is a cynical New Yorker so, of course, there is no instant connection. But as the wedding fast approaches and with the whole city at their fingertips, who knows what could happen?!
Written and composed by talented duo, Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, as you may except the story is mildly predictable but there are still plenty of surprises. We don’t know about you Besties, but we don’t normally watch rom-coms for the plot. We love these classic stories because of the comforting way they make us feel. Two Strangers captures this sentiment perfectly as we jump on the emotional rollercoaster that is human connection, but we leave the theatre feeling nothing but joy. This show is an ode to movies, especially those set in New York, with Home Alone being a frequent feature. This is aided by the fact that Dougal works in a cinema, and there are a multitude of clever references that are expertly worked into the script and songs. Two Strangers is also an excellent observational comedy that plays on the differences between Brits and Americans, and men and women especially, in the lyrically dexterous numbers: ‘On the App’ and ‘The Hangover Duet’.
In a two-hander, the pressure is really on to nail the casting, and Sam Tutty and Dujonna Gift have brilliantly believable chemistry and natural comedic timing. Tutty's buttery smooth voice blends perfectly with Gift's powerful vocals. Tutty’s effervescent energy shines from the start in opening number ‘New York!’, but he also get a chance to show his emotional range in ‘He Doesn’t Exist’. Gift has three sensational ballads to show off her vocal and acting talents as Robin slowly warms up to the naive Dougal. ‘American Express’ closes the first act and this jazzy number brings pizzazz and a sprinkle of Christmas spirit.
A revolve has become commonplace in London theatre to the point it sometimes feels gimmicky. This is not the case in Two Strangers as it is the perfect vehicle for the towers of multifunctional suitcases that form the skyscraper set. When combined with Tim Jackson’s direction, this means that every inch of the Kiln Theatre's small stage is utilised. This two-hander has clearly been carefully choreographed but instead of feeling overly rehearsed, it is satisfyingly slick and the series of catchy musical numbers ensure that the fun of this fabulous show is never lost.
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is a simply joyous show and what’s not to love about a musical that leaves you smiling from ear to ear.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Sophie Luck
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) plays at London’s Kiln Theatre until 20 January, with further information here.