Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends, a new revue devised by Cameron Mackintosh in honour of the great lyricist and composer, sold-out its charity one night gala almost 18 months ago, so of course it feels fitting to produce it as a full production to allow more theatre fans to see the spectacle. Because that’s what it truly is, a spectacle, a celebration of what musical theatre means, and a performance that every fan of musical theatre – die hard Sondheim devotee or not – should see.
While I’m not familiar with every show dusted with the magic of Sondheim, Old Friends is an immensely wonderful production for its beautiful melodies and the incredible talent of its cast. Although I’m not quite the demographic to be excited about Bernadette Peters, I appreciate her significance in the world of Sondheim and that this show simply couldn’t exist without her as a part of it. Her stage presence remains remarkable, but her vocals don’t compete with the likes of Lea Salonga, who moves a whole audience with just a single flawless note. Her performances of Loving You from Passion in act 1 and Everything’s Coming Up Roses from Gypsy in act 2 were outstanding highlights of the show, while her moment as Mrs Lovett of Sweeney Todd also demonstrated her multi-faceted talent and amazing skill at character work alongside her powerhouse vocals.
It’s also very exciting to see one of my favourite West End stars Bradley Jaden in the cast – as he’s mostly starred previously in long running musicals from Javert and Enjolras in Les Mis to Fiyero in Wicked, it’s great to see him get recognition in a new production. Although his turn as the wolf in Into The Woods has been a popular highlight for many, for me the end of Act 1 where he is George from Sunday in the Park, with the whole cast and beautiful artwork behind genuinely gave me goosebumps it was so mesmerising.
There’s moments that will have many audience members shedding a tear, least of all Bernadette Peters performing Send In The Clowns, but there’s also such hilarious performances throughout too. Jason Pennycooke’s Buddy’s Blues was a fantastic scene, as was Jamie Dee’s The Boy From… I was also awestruck by Joanna Riding’s Getting Married Today.
From Broadway Baby, where all the women of the cast perform a dazzling number that really epitomises musical theatre in its sparkling glory, to Tonight from West Side Story featuring the younger members of the cast, there’s some great ensemble moments throughout. The cast have really banded together to showcase the very best of their talent and Sondheim’s work.
Sondheim’s Old Friends is a classy and lively celebration of his work and a must-see for every musical theatre fan. It’s playing at the Gielgud Theatre until 6 January, so consider it the perfect treat for the festive season!
