Assassins

Synopsis

Award winning musical. Assassins is a twisted celebration of America, "a land where any boy can grow up to kill a president". This show explores the motives of nine individuals who attempt to assassinate American presidents. Through Sondheim's witty lyrics and emotive score, it exposes a sinister underside to the American Dream. Compelling, innovative and yet disturbingly funny, this is one of the most controversial musicals ever written.

Our Review:

Andrew Girvan - 27 March 2012

As an outfit 2nd Company exist to promote the work of Stephen Sondheim and new writers from his school. It could be argued that the much-celebrated octogenarian composer-lyricist doesn't need the help - but it's obvious why musical theatre performers are drawn to his canon.

The company have previously tackled Follies, Company and Just Another Love Story, and Ray Rackham now revives Assassins, Sondheim's 1990 one-act examination of nine attempts on the lives of US Presidents.

Rackman notes that the characters in Assassins have confused the right to pursue happiness with the right to obtaining it, whatever the cost. I'd give him this observation, with the production presenting a rumination on the power of a strongly held ideal, combined with the fixating power of a firearm.

David Esler's scenic design is an understated purgatory, alas the piece's musical staging walks a tightrope line, mixing...

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Latest User Review

Simon Grigson - 17 April 2012:

I have to say, this show was truly wonderful. Amazing performances from everyone involved. Ray Rackham's talent as a director of Sondheim's work has truly been cemented in this production. Loved it!...

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