A theatrical reviewer will often be asked to attend different productions of the same show, But it is rare that a production will have two launches at the same theatre within six months of each other. This has happened with Marvellous – based around the life of Chesterton lad Neil Baldwin.
Marvellous proved to be such a hit during its first run that it played to packed houses throughout and its popularity demanded that the New Vic should squeeze another set of performances into its schedule before the play heads off to London. But was it worth a second visit?
Michael Hugo – who continues his impeccable portrayal of Baldwin – told me that bringing the play back again allowed the Director Theresa Heskins and cast to bring in some refinements that had been contemplated before the original opening. He was adamant that the new version was an enhancement and that the cast – identical to the first showings – were looking forward to meeting audiences again.
For me, the principal advantage of having a second bite at this theatrical cherry was the fact that I could relax and enjoy the stagecraft of a talented set of performers. As already stated, Hugo is the spirit of Nello and he has marvellous – that word again!! – interaction with both his cast and the audience.
I was once again able to be blown away by the empathy with which Suzanne Ahmet fleshes out the character of Neil’s beloved mother and by the constant dialect alterations of Gareth Cassidy – the Man of a Thousand Voices who even got the local pronunciation of Baldwin’s home town right. These three were superbly backed by the versatility of Charlie Bence – who told me how much she enjoys the area and the play -, Alex Frost, Jerone Marsh-Reid and Daniel Murphy. Congratulations to all.
There was also the opportunity to once again revel in the humour and be affected by the poignancy as a bereft Baldwin coped with the loss of his beloved mother.
For those who have yet to see this production, I would urge you to pop along to see it before it closes on October 8th. It will make you rock with laughter and then bring a tear to your eye. It is about a local man but its theme is universal. It shows that adversity can be overcome with a positive approach and that inclusivity brings its just rewards to society.
Marvellous is a veritable jewel in the crown of the New Vic’s anniversary year. Worth a second visit? Abso-blooming-lutely.
