I Wish My Life Were Like a Musical, which is written by Alexander S Bermange, takes audiences on a journey of a musical theatre performer, and the highs and many, many lows that come from working in the industry. Presented as an almost song-cycle, we are taken through a journey of first auditions, not getting the job, getting the very first minor role to catching a big break, and Bermange does well to create witty and satirical lyrics with many nods to musical theatre.
The cast of four (Julie Yammanee, Jessi O'Donnell, Sev Keoshgerian and Luke Harley) are accompanied by Bermange on the piano. Each member has the opportunity to demonstrate their musicial abilities with solo and group performances, and each member gives a masterclass on acting through song. Yammanee, in particular, gives a standout performance as an individual who loves to sing, albeit not always in tune. O'Donnell gives an incredible performance as the stunt-casted diva that we often see in shows, with seriously impressive vocals. Keoshgerian and Harley both give a masterclass in comedic timing and win over the audiences with their hilarious songs about the former going on stage when feeling slightly under the weather, and the latter performance of a football fan who secretly loves musicals.
Matthew Parker's direction ensures that the jam packed 75 minutes runs seamlessly. With limited set design, the cast command the stage with their inspired choreography and the use of costume changes and props that play homage to some of the greatest theatre shows of all time.
Whilst the performances are incredibly fun and enjoyable, unfortunately, the songs seem forgettable and the song-cycle feels slightly random and lacks clarity. However, this is an enjoyable evening at the theatre for any musical theatre fan.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
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