1888

Synopsis

Set against the vibrant, chaotic and colourful backdrop of London, horrific incidents occurred during the hot summer of 1888 that gripped the East End from Whitechapel to the 'Bohemia' of Hoxton. Behind a series of events, which almost brought this mighty metropolis to the brink of imploding in a social and media fuelled frenzy of fear and dread, hid the face of someone who was to become one of history's most infamous serial killers. Detective Constable John Beck and house maid Rosie Walker, two young lovers who themselves are forced to confront their own demons, must work together in an attempt to end a spree of carnage that would challenge and ultimately change the face and attitudes of this great city forever. 1888 a dark era of change...

Our Review:

29 June 2011

The gruesome murders of 19th century prostitutes don’t initially strike one as the perfect topic for a new musical - but the result is an energetic, if rough around the edges, romp through the alleys and public houses of London’s East End, following the unlucky citizens of Whitechapel as they’re terrorised by the anonymous Jack the Ripper.

1888 is a bawdy gambol with an excellently dark second act, enthusiastically undertaken by the cast, but sadly let down by an inconsistent book. Some of Gerry Ware’s songs are utter gems – the Ripper choruses and ensemble tunes are particularly stand-out – but others, often the solos, need much more polish.

The musical attempts to pack several narratives into a short space, leading to a couple of flat threads, a lack of empathy for the leads and some clunky lyrics. Brave is the writer who aims to reflect not only one of the greatest unsolved crimes in British history, but th...

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Latest User Review

Alice Moorfoot - 12 June 2011:

Wonderful entertaining show with some great new songs in addition to Music Hall favourites.Set design works wonders for the limited space available. Do not miss this vibrant production....

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