I'm Almost There, which is written and performed by Todd Almond, is a marvellous musical monologue that fills the room and delights audiences with its grounded yet fantastical storytelling approach. Directed by David Cromer, the show takes on a minimalistic and mostly auditory approach, with Almond sat at his piano, playing and narrating throughout. Almond is joined on stage by two other musicians, Erin Hill and Luke McCrosson.
The plot echos that of the Greek classic poem "Odyssey", wherein the leading protagonist must face a number of obstacles in his pursuit for love and happiness. Having met "Guy" at a party, the two instantly hit it off and spend the rest of the night bonding. When "Guy" shows up the next morning with coffee, Almond's character (unnamed) is elated. However, he must overcome a number of obstacles before he can let "Guy" in, both literally and metaphorically. With crazy neighbours, talking cats, sexy beasts and vampires, it's a mystical journey through his apartment to get to the front door. Almond's character's nonchalant approach to these obstacles makes for an even more fascinating watch and the audience take a talking cat and vampire in their stride. Hill and McCrosson are cast as "Crazy Neighbour" and "Sexy Beast" respectively, although they aren't given much to say.
Originally produced by Audible, this production would make a great audio book. Whilst it's lovely to watch Almond, Hill and McCrosson perform live, it's not the most visually stimulating of shows. In the sold out, cool room, one had the desire to close their eyes and let the words guide the story. Almond demonstrates exceptional talent as a writer, musician and singer, weaving the three skills into a tight and strong piece.
The show plays like a dream, an almost ethereal atmosphere, only helped by the mist and lighting, and the cool breeze in an otherwise warm and cosy room. Almond invites the audience to take joy in the unpredictability of the obstacles, and the lighter moments of comedy. The songs are scattered throughout, and help efficiently establish new characters.
With a soul-stirring soundtrack that gently sways the story forwards and magnifies small moments into powerful ones, the music is gorgeous. Jonathan Mastro has worked on the orchestrations for the piece. The music, whilst vibrant in its own right, never distracts from the story and monologue. Almond's vocals catch you off guard and are soothing to listen to. Hill is given a chance to showcase her nightingale-like voice in a song, adding another mesmerising vocal into the show.
Despite the fantastical elements and the exaggerated details, for example the talking cat claims to be 53% Almond's late mother and 47% cat, the story is relatable and feels grounded. With his yearning for love and happiness, each distraction draws out this journey, but it's understandable diversions. The groundwork is steady, allowing for Almond to create this mythical imaginary castle, without compromising the emotional depth of the piece.
It's Almost There is a special piece that is a well rounded show and reminds one of the magic of good writing.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
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