Reader Reviews
Merrily We Roll Along (Menier Theatre, Outer London)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | Perhaps I’m the problem and the great Sondheim is not for me; will try a few more yet. This reverse chronological story about friends, and that’s about it, is excellently presented and performed by an in-crowd of note. A few unknowns and wider casting might have added spark to yet another weak book that’s media-about-media. Audiences’ insatiable appetite for incestual entertainment is once again satisfied and proves you can con’ most of the people most of the time. A sell out show that’s a long way from its early Broadway (1981) failings but I’ll wager a transfer up West won’t hack it. I paid so I stayed, but a close call on something I’ve never done, walk out.. - Stevie | 21 Feb 13 |
| This production NEEDS a transfer to the West End! - Matthew | 09 Jan 13 |
| Utterly brilliant! Please transfer. - Mr Hewitt | 05 Jan 13 |
| Merrily was a notorious flop for Sondheim and shares a reverse chronology with Pinter's Betrayal. In the first half I wasn't sure if that served any more purpose than in Pinter's play, but after the interval it made more sense as the characters regress towards youthful optimism. Maria Friedman is a wonderful interpreter of Sondheim and she brings that knowledge and experience to a production which represents a long awaited return to form for the Chocolate Factory. They have assembled a superb cast with exceptional performances throughout, including Jenna Russell, Damien Humbley, Josefina Gabrielle and Miss Wendy's pride and joy, Clare Foster. Mark Umbers has a respectable theatre CV but it's a mystery why he hasn't become the West End's most in demand leading man since Michael Ball. He's a bit like David Hasslehof but with talent and brilliantly makes us care about Frank, who we first encounter as an arrogant adulterous sell-out. As with so much of Sondheim's work I found this show easier to admire for it's craftsmanship rather than to love for it's emotional impact but it succeeded superbly in reinstating our traditional Christmas / New Year Sunday afternoon at the Chocolate Factory. - David Baxter | 31 Dec 12 |
| Stunning. If there has ever been a cast to surpass the collective ability, stage-craft, vocal ability and general musical theatre calibre of this one then I'd be shocked. Such a bitter-sweet show which has been overlooked for too-long. The simple staging is so effective and leaves the attention to the cast to regress the story over a two decade period. It is difficult to simple out any performer, but I thought Clare Fosters delivery of 'Beth's' big emotional number at the end of Act 1 was sublime - far too often songs such as this one gets lost by overacting and screaching vocals -- not a bit of it this time. Perfect for the space, this show returns the Menier back to the top of outstanding British producing houses. The show may not be up there with Sweeney and Company as Sondheims greatest work, but the production catipults it to a status not far off. - Richard | 07 Dec 12 |
| Absolutely amazing. Outstanding performances all-round, but Jenna Russell in particular is sensational (both comically and emotionally). Must see this production again. - Carl | 27 Nov 12 |
| Saw the show last night. It is well cast, well sung with good choreography, costumes and staging but for me, despite all that there was something missing in the first act, a decent enough performance but lacking a real spark. The second act seemed much better, capped by the wonderful "Our Time" which is a truly stunning song. I think part of the problem is that the show is a little too long and a few cuts here and there could make it flow better. I liked it but wanted to enjoy it more that I did. - Paul Wallis | 25 Nov 12 |
