Reviews

Wasted Love

One Academy Productions produce another spectacular piece of intimate musical theatre in Wasted Love. This accessible and gloriously funny show is set in a “Wasted Love Group”, who meet to discuss and share their unrequited passions or wrecked relationships.

This is tongue in cheek, packed full of laughs and utterly bonkers. Occasionally very dark and even twisted in content, it remains hilarious throughout. Songs such as “Why Don’t You Love Me?” and “I Bet You’re Glad I’m Not a Killer” punctuate the show, sung in a variety of styles with bright, punchy arrangements.

The production is almost as strong as the material thanks to a multi-tasking and multi-talented troupe of actor-musicians, performing with self-mocking Glee style humour and warmth. You can see the effort and energy pouring out of each of them, which makes an already upbeat show even more exhilarating. Props – from wooden boxes to teacups – also serve as percussion instruments, adding to the fun.

Wasted Love spends so long laughing at itself and making jibes at musical theatre generally, that it seems to get even the grumpiest audience member onside. You won’t be wasting your time if you decide to go along.

– Chris Wheeler