Original Book: Dodie Smith
Stage Adaptation: Zinnie Harris
Book: Johnny McKnight
Music and Lyrics: Douglas Hodge
Puppies galore can be spotted this week at the Newcastle Theatre Royal. Puppies scamper everywhere alongside the strutting larger than life character of Cruella Da Vil (Kym Marsh).
101 Dalmatians The Musical opened tonight to a full house of excited youngsters and adults alike. The musical has been adapted from Dodie Smith’s 1956 novel, which later inspired Disney to create the hit film. This new musical version is currently touring the UK and Ireland.
The story, for those who are unfamiliar with the book and film, follows Tom (Samuel Thomas) and Danielle (Jessie Elland), the loving owners of Pongo (Linford Johnson) and Perdi (Emma Thornett) along with their fifteen puppies, as they struggle to save the puppies from ending up in the hands of the evil, cruel Cruella De Vil.
The simple sets designed by David Woodhead contrast in style from the cosiness of Tom and Danielle’s home to the even simpler but stylish surroundings of Cruella and her plethora of designer outfits. These outlandish costumes are been designed by Sarah Mercade. The set however of Tom and Danielle’s home is a little flimsy and at times unclosed doors created a distracting problem.
The show begins with a delightful opening scene when Pongo and Perdi meet for the first time alongside their owners Tom and Danielle. The rendition from the ensemble of Animal Lover is delightful. It is also wonderful to have a live band in the orchestra pit too. The musical director, Leigh Stanford Thompson, and his team of musicians add an uplifting element.
The following scene introduces the audience to the home of Tom and Danielle which in turn leads to the first encounter of Cruella De Vil and her two sidekicks, her nephews, Jasper (Danny Hendrix) and Casper (Charles Brunton). Together these two hapless villains bring a pantomime element to the show. They bring lots of energy, action and comedy to their roles. They are certainly loveable rogues and delight the audience with their antics.
As Cruella (Kym Marsh) struts the stage in her outlandish costumes she creates a believable villain. Her characterisation is not too over the top however but she has a wicked laugh.
The second act introduces the audience to the captured puppies. The tension builds as the puppies try to escape. They are assisted in their endeavour by a very clever and likeable cat.
The puppetry designed by Jimmy Grimes is certainly the star of the show. All of the puppets are skilfully handled by their puppeteers bringing them to life with a believability.
The musical numbers throughout, by the ensemble, are well delivered and at times toe tapping. Marsh also delivers some powerful numbers with ease.
Although this is a fun show there are some moving moments and valued messages interspersed. This can be seen especially during the scene where the puppies struggle to find their way home. The director (Bill Brockhurst) cleverly breaks the fourth wall at this point. The puppets and cast appear amongst the audience much to the delight of the young audience.
It is overall a delightful show being ideal for families with lots of funny, witty moments and some memorable characters. If you want to see some puppy love created by wonderful puppeteers then scamper along to get a ticket for this one.
Runs until 31st August 2024.
The Reviews Hub Score
Fun, Frolicking, Puppetry
