Review: Disney’s HERCULES, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Photo credit: Johan Persson © Disney
Still searching for a summer getaway? Transport yourself to Ancient Greece at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane’s latest Disney musical spectacular Hercules. This timeless family-friendly storyline follows son of the Gods, Hercules, on a journey of love, self-discovery, and heroism, all in the face of evil uncle Hades’ constant scheming, and is excellently brought to the London stage under the direction and choreography of Casey Nicholaw, supported by a tight and talented production team, cast and orchestra. This production promises humorously witty dialogue, adventurous antics and immersive theatrics.
Central to the narration of the storyline and acting in true Greek Chorus fashion, the Muses are the true powerhouses at the heart of the show, bringing electric vocals, stellar characterisations, smooth moves and endless energy. Candace Furbert (Thalia), Sharlene Hector (Clio), Brianna Ogunbawo (Melpomene), Malinda Parris (Calliope) and Robyn Rose-Li (Terpsichore) all work together blending magical harmonies and showcasing star quality every time they are onstage, whether providing central vocals in iconic songs such as ‘Gospel Truth’, or providing enchanting backing vocals in Meg’s song, ‘I Won’t Say (I’m in Love)’. Of course, the numerous costume changes each time they re-enter for a new song or scene, supported by Gregg Barnes and Sky Switser’s detailed and dazzling costume design, gives Hercules the added magic it deserves.
Luke Brady tackles the lead role of Hercules with a gripping performance oozing in loveable charm. His acting shows incredible duality from comedic antics alongside Trevor Dion Nicholas’ Phil where this pair really nail the laugh-out-loud one-liners, or heartwarming gentleness and softness in his romance with Meg (Mae Ann Jorolan).
The Hercules soundtrack is undoubtably iconic. A standout is the beloved song from the original movie ‘Zero to Hero’, which truly pulls out all the stops. With high energy dance routines featuring impressive choreographic feats, stellar mid-song costume changes, catchy vocals and, of course, confetti canons, it undeniably creates a memorable Act One finale to leave audiences still dancing in their seats in the interval.
‘Getting Even’ is one of many new songs written specially for this West End adaptation by Alan Menken and David Zippel, sung by none other than the show’s villain, Hades (Stephen Carlile). A tap-dancing number centred on a sassy caricature of one of Disney’s most iconic villains is all we need, cementing the fact that the new score will undeniably prove itself to be equally as catchy as the original Disney one.
The theatrics are immersive from the get-go thanks to Dane Laffrey’s set design that, within moments of entering the theatre, transports audiences to Mount Olympus, including stage traps that raise numerous Greek pillars decorating the stage in God-like glory. Each location is excellently detailed from the spooky underworld to the dazzling land of the Gods, but one of the most beautiful mise-en-scènes is when the stage is decorated in rose bushes and fairy lights for Meg’s beautiful solo.
A laugh-out-loud script paired with a gorgeous new soundtrack are all the ingredients needed for London’s most promising new family spectacular.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Heidi Downing
