The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
Review by Richie Simpson, Presenter of Theatreland on RWS FM 103.3.
“It’s all just a matter of time” is a recurring theme in this new British musical, currently playing at the Ambassador’s Theatre in London’s West End
And, it really is just a matter of time until this show is the one that everyone is talking about.
Jethro Compton (book, lyrics, direction, stage design) and Darren Clark’s (music, lyrics, orchestration) adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story - about a man who is born elderly and ages backward - beautifully transports the narrative to early 20th century Cornwall, and tells a tale of social isolation, a search for home and the meaning of love.
The powerful ensemble of actor-musicians switches roles with deft aplomb, conveying Compton’s script with the right balance of humour and pathos. Meanwhile, Clark’s beautiful score sends your emotions on a rollercoaster ride through joy, despair and loneliness.
I cried all the way through, due to both the power and connection of the script, and the beauty of the music.
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
Compton’s clever stage design demonstrates how a musical does not require the distraction of complex, moving sets if the material itself is strong enough to stand on its own two feet. And the minimalist nature of this production shows just how brilliant a musical it is.
The set itself is static, giving the feel of a Cornwall boardwalk, with only a few boxes and smartly placed traps providing any sense of a set change.
That this narrative develops over 60 years with little to no visual clues really is testament to the power of the storytelling.
Benedict Salter covered the role of Benjamin in my performance and his acting skill was expertly shown as he convincingly portrayed Button’s story from grave to the cradle.
His sense of isolation and a longing to be understood was keenly felt throughout the show. Meanwhile Clare Foster’s Elowen poignantly showed all that love, in all its forms, can be, and how compassion is more important than comprehension.
This production shows that, when looking for where you belong, “it’s all just a matter of time.”
A phenomenal musical.
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is at Ambassadors Theatre, London. Now booking for 2025.