We all know the legend of Titanic. Aware of the inevitable ending to its story, this production was genuinely heartbreaking from the outset. With a captivating musical focusing on the characters' dreams, a brutal impact was taken on my emotions. For sure, the most gut wrenching and heartfelt ensemble performance I have seen this year.
We were welcomed into the Wycombe Swan foyer with an alluring orchestral performance from the High Wycombe Music Centre and this set the scene of the evening with a lovely atmosphere. Once the show began, I was further enthralled with simply beautiful harmonies. Any time these were introduced into the score, I was sat in awe. Perfectly blending but with distinctive layers, I was truly enticed by the various voices within the cast. Specifically, when the ensemble unify in the opening number and act finales - 'Godspeed Titanic' and 'No Moon'. I personally love a choreographed musical number so 'Barrett's Song' and 'Doing the Latest Rag' were also highly pleasurable moments. Worthy mention of Adam Filipe playing 'Barrett' - he is the kind of man you instantly root for as he has a vulnerable side but also grand ideas and ambitions, and Filipe played him with a respectful complexity.
Despite trying to cover many personal stories, all were given enough dedicated time to be done justice. Intertwining and contrasting Andrews the Designer (Ian McLarnon), Ismay the Owner (Martin Allanson) and the Captain (Graham Bickley), my standout sub-plot was watching their conflict on how the Titanic should proceed on its journey. The opposing views and morals were fascinating to witness on stage. Since the audience knew the eventual outcome, it was evident to see who it would be sensible to side with. However, when you take a moment to reflect, you can begin to understand the perspectives of the Owner and Captain too. All three men gave a compelling performance with 'Mr Andrew's Vision' being a highlight song. As the tension increased, in particular when combined with the creative staging, all I could wish for was a happy ending. People will mock an 'unsinkable' ship for sinking, but it wasn't the design that was at fault...
On edge as the second act progressed, I quickly found myself sat in a sea of tears. My heart banged when discovering the shattering consequences for each individual character. Learning the fates of the characters that you had began to love was devastating. Time was taken for the audience to face each character or group outcome. Joseph Peacock playing the Bellboy was perhaps my favourite character portrayal - cheeky and charming, with lots of heart, he was easily loveable. Although the entire cast were spectacular, I would further like to applaud Sam Brown (Fleet), Barnaby Hughes (Etches) and Billy Roberts (Murdoch) for their profound performances.
There was a striking oceanic glow from the blue-tinged lighting which brought elegance to the sombre tale - reminding you of the beauty within these characters' stories, not just the tragedy. I would not hesitate to recommend this majestic production. Before entering the Wycombe Swan, my knowledge of the Titanic tale was basic. However, now that I have been educated, inspired and emotionally challenged.
Titanic runs at Wycombe Swan until 27th May, before it continues its tour around UK theatres until the beginning of August. For more tickets and information, you can follow the link here.
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AD | gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Reviewed by Carly (@stageychaos)