⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Having to follow the overwhelming success of their globally revered hit Six, a big fancy musical was on the cards and now seeks a similar triumph. Finding home at London’s Garrick Theatre, Why Am I So Single? is Lucy Moss and Toby Marlow's latest concoction striving for a swipe right. With an abundance of instantly hot tracks, plenty of quick humour, and two of the biggest upcoming stars leading the way, you won't be able to resist it.
From the toilet mirrors to the Garrick sign, not forgetting the themed cocktails too, the production has truly taken over, infiltrating its sparkle into every corner. The pre-show tracklist sets the vibe, including 'We're All in This Together' from High School Musical, 'Lonely' by Akon, and 'Survivor/I Will Survive' Glee Cast mash-up to give a good dose of nostalgia for prime audience members, as well as stress that the show is for those single and mingling, partnered up, in complicated situations or anything in between.
Beautifully bold yet richly refined in parts, it is clear that the spectacular writing duo have the skill to craft shows that are in touch with their audiences. Although this may be seen as a little niche in comparison to the predecessor (certainly being more 'adult' with a lot more swearing!), the unlikely storyline will certainly bid to try and capture your heart. In a reflection of Marlow and Moss' own dating history, a pair of hopeless romantics Oliver, played by Jo Foster and Nancy, Leesa Tulley, ask themselves why the barren dating landscape is so awfully complicated to navigate. Despite the strong question in the title, the piece actually honours the importance of platonic relationships: often overlooked within the arts with romance stealing the limelight of exposure.
As a non-binary person, Toby mirrors this in the character of Oliver, adding a crucial and underrepresented perspective to the brilliantly diverse and inclusive company. It poses a discussion for the struggles of identity that act as an extra barrier for dating for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Nancy mentions the loss of her father, and together, the pals contemplate whether the pain from their past is the reason for their dreary love life, or if it is just their eclectic personalities.
Since each role is comedically named after those in Oliver! as a running quip, Artie (Noah Thomas) is a larger-than-life mutual friend, amping up the flamboyancy - which, let's be honest, is already high with the level of campness - in every appearance. Littered with other musical references too, there's a lot to catch your eye in the busier moments. Marlow and Moss love a musical-in-a-musical format, and this is no different: that fourth wall is crushed and rebuilt more frequently than the characters' egos. Generally effective enough in execution, there are a few moments that fall flat, feeling disjointed or random across the script, with the aforementioned overuse of blasphemy and overworked Friends references sadly reducing the effectiveness of the writing. With a run time of 2 hours 30, it would be interesting to see whether a shorter piece would improve how concise and fluid it appears.
A quirky set by Moi Tran grabs immediate attention, feeling fresh and creative (no spoilers here - you must watch to find out why!). However, as the narrative progresses, the overall feel doesn't transform consistently when the magnificence of the vocal and lyrical performance outweighs the staging. Jai Morjaria's engrossing lighting compositions work well with Ellen Kane frequently bringing in some punchy choreography for the dynamic company, co-directing alongside Lucy Moss.
Jo Foster and Leesa Tulley truly make the show though. Their dazzling presentations highlight a picture of peak performance; a faultless demonstration of some industry breakthrough masterclasses. Beneath the humour, a vivid depiction of deeper emotion and vulnerability in conjunction with their friendly likability and messiness gives audiences a connection to the story that is no doubt relatable for many. The production opens with the titular track 'Why Am I So Single?' - the introduction to the sensational setlist. Soon to be released as a cast recording, 'C U Never', '8 Dates', and 'Disco Ball' are just a few of the upbeat, catchy bops, with 'Just In Case' offering a slower ballad for contrast. Versatility and control are exhibited with ease.
Overall, Why Am I So Single? has a big stage for a debut musical, which has both advantages and disadvantages. It is fun, playful, and daring, featuring some belters that are unwaveringly impressive from the cast but it requires a few tweaks to fulfil its potential. Despite this, a blazing attraction to join the pair in the flat, have a drink and question life will mean you can't possibly refuse.
Comments