Review: WHERE DO LITTLE BIRDS GO? is a Hilarious Unmissable Kray-zy Ride at Old Fitz Theatre

Every now and then you stumble on a play that is so charming, funny and well put together, a true diamond in the rough that reminds you there is a significant delta between what graces billboards and what is sensational. Due in large part to the incredible textual talents of writer Camilla Whitehill combined with the comedy-performance genius of Bishanyia Vincent, Where Do Little Birds Go? is a musical monologue of impeccable polish.

The Kray twins Reggie and Ronnie were kingpins of London crime who turned their infamy into actual fame during the fifties and sixties in amongst their spree of violence. Camilla Whitehill in her reading of true crime discovered a young woman the Krays had kidnapped to sexually satisfy prison escapee and axe murderer Frank Mitchell. Fascinated by the story of this obscure heroine, Whitehill created the role of nightclub hostess and aspiring singer Lucy whose spirit and resilience helped her overcome her trauma with humour and a faultless sweetness. Vincent brings the role to life with remarkable comedic prowess, a dizzy charisma and flashes of sincerity that cuts at the heart-strings and tear-ducts.

Giles Gartrell-Mills' direction makes seamless use of Vincent's chortle-inducing characterisation, and gets inventive with what at first glance appears to be a pretty static set, but turns out to be a comedy piece in and of itself, replete with squeaky bed and the past-its-prime recliner. Brodie Simpson's costume design completes the aesthetic of London's 1960s underbelly, and too seems purpose-built to provide an imbued humour. Liam D Kemp accompanies the show with sixties standards, with Shondelle Pratt's choreography to add a layer of depth and dreaminess to Vincent's performance. Many of the numbers were met with applause by virtue of her commitment and talent.

Presented by local spirit-makers Poor Tom's Gin, Where Do Little Birds Go? is laugh-out-loud funny, a showcase of genuine talent and first-rate storytelling. Don't miss the show when they tour soon! Keep an eye on the team here.

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