Review: BIG SHOT at The Helix
Big Shot Destined for Bright Lights
The comforting cacophony of blaring sirens. A kaleidoscope of scents: sweet and foul. The perpetual surge of humanity. All the things I love most about New York City.
Into the melee, in a neighborhood coffee shop, a love triangle unfolds. Carrie O'Keefe (Sorcha Fenlon), a budding young Irish artist making ends meet as a barista, her smooth talking fiance, Hank Midden (Andrew Smyth) and big shot lawyer Jeremy Croker (Carl Stallwood) who has fallen under her spell.
Prepare for a rumpus, from the blossoming cafe courtship to New York's drug and crime underbelly and culminating in courtroom commotion.
This original Irish Musical is an unequivocal crowd pleaser packed in equal measure with drama, romance, comedy and sweet tragedy. The musical score is arresting with soaring ballads and dramatic 2, 3 and 4 part harmonies. In typical Irish fashion the lyrics are witty and poignant, constantly drawing you into the doomed triad.
The edgy chemistry amongst the leads was tangible with the lovely Carrie being buffeted between charming chivalry and coercive control. The entangled trio were nicely balanced by a comedic subplot. Amy Penston was a clear stand out as the vivacious cafe owner Vivienne, warding off her own enthusiastic suitor - Frankie Taylor (Sean MacMathuna) to hilarious effect.
The band set up on stage nimbly maintained the Big Apple mood throughout. The teen company from the Phoenix Performing Arts School rounded out the cast splendidly. Their ensemble dance numbers were slick and dextrous as to be expected from zealous, disciplined and super flexible teens. A nod to Costume Designer Jade Young and her fabulous autumnal colour palette - very 'Wes Anderson.'
Impressively, Creator and Director Lauryn Gaffney was only 21 when she debuted The Big Shot in Dublin in 2014. This homegrown production complete with Irish cast, creative team and band has already made waves across the pond where it captured the imaginations of American audiences, winning the 'Spirit of The Fringe' award at San Diego's 2015 International Fringe Festival. Their International tour continued with well received performances in both Mexico and the West End.
After a 2 year hiatus Big Shot returned to stage 2 nights ago with a sold-out performance at The Helix in Dublin. Gaffney, partnering with Producer Grainne McNeill and recruiting many of her original team, including Assistant Director Orla Sheridan and Choreographer Mark Kennedy, clearly has a passionate vision for this show. Judging by the hugely enthusiastic audience, the production was an undeniable hit with them. What a delight it would be to see Big Shot forge a path to the Great White Way.
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