Ride the Cyclone review – Teens sing for their redemption in a musical | stage

WWell, this is a strange piece of music. Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell’s hit show, which began life in a fringe theater in Canada in 2009, has the spirit of the circus woven into its fabric. He arrives in London, quirks and all, in a wonderfully whimsical production directed by Lizzie Gee.

The story about six high school jugglers who are sent to their demise from a rollercoaster isn’t the most traditional ground for an all-song-and-dance show. But as we travel with them into the space between life and death, where they are forced to compete for a second chance on Earth, the narrative gradually slips away from its morbid trappings and celebrates life.

Led by the astonishing fortune teller Crank (Edward Waugh), who moves with the agility of an inflatable toy and towers above the stage, the teens are asked to come forward one by one to present their case. What follows is a collection of musical numbers, with each contestant giving an abbreviated version of their life story.

Ocean (Bailee Carson), the squeaky-voiced Queen Bee, first launches into a song celebrating herself. Noel (Damon Gould) follows a dreamlike fantasy of high kicks and corsets. Ukrainian rebel Misha (Bartek Kraszewski) delivers a powerful rap. Ricky (Jack Maverick), who grew up mute, is transformed into a sequin-wearing god in this ’70s-inspired space-age bachelor novel. Constance, the most beautiful girl in town (a great debut by Robyn Gilbertson), discovers her love for the world too late. Jane Doe (Grace Galloway), who was decapitated in the accident and now wears a doll’s head, performs a haunting song about the unknown person she may have become.

After a while, the structure starts to feel formulaic. With each character given only a fleeting moment in the spotlight, there is little time to delve into their depths. However, it’s easy to see why the show has gained a dedicated fanbase over the years. It’s a truly unique musical, and could go even higher with a few tweaks.