MUSICAL REVIEW: Half a Sixpence ★★★★

Half a Sixpence

Noel Coward Theatre, London

Saturday 14th January 2017

There comes a time every so often where I watch a show which completely enthrals me, really captivating myself every moment of the production, just like Mary Poppins did last year, and now Half a Sixpence, a show which I loved every single minute of from start to finish, and due to every aspect of this entrancing performance.

Straight from the beginning where we initially meet childhood sweethearts Arthur Kipps (Charlie Stemp) and Ann Pornick (Devon-Elise Johnson), we are instantly following this incredible chemistry between the characters thanks to Kemp and Johnson respectfully. For a show were 5*s have been plastered on every billboard and poster, this may come as no surprise, but to see these two play alongside each other is such a treat and an honour to witness.

What was so thrilling about this production also was how beautiful all the music was and controlled chaos within these sequences, an example of which being one of the opening numbers ‘Look Alive’, set in the tailoring shop where Arthur now works at Folkestone Drapers, where Arthur is an apprentice. All the costumes in the production as also extremely authentic and really add to the atmosphere of the production really making you feel like you have travelled back in time, and the projection throughout the show where we see the stately homes to which Mrs Walsingham wants to build using Arthur's wealth that he has inherited, really gives a shows how much thought has gone into this heartwarming production.

This production has so many moments to love and that’s clearly why everyone can shower nothing but praise on this show and it really is all done to the splendid cast and ensemble, as well as everyone backstage for making this happen. The show is nominated for 8 awards at 'The What's on Stage Awards', and I have no doubt that they will do tremendously well, but only time shall see as we watch till Sunday 19th February to find out!