101 Dalmations The Musical is based on the 1956 popular children's novel The Hundred and One Dalmatians written by Dodie Smith. The Musical is now running for six weeks during the English summer holidays and is set to become a family favourite and potentially the must-see show this Summer.
Sydnie Christmas brings one of Disney's most awful baddies Cruella De Vil to life in the latest staged production of 101 Dalmatians The Musical. Alongside Jeff Brazier as Casper and Aston Merrygold in the role of Jasper the ready-to-please hapless assistants who live and work with their unpleasant Aunt Cruella after their mother died.
The enchanting performances by the puppeteers, working a large range of different puppets on stage, allow you to suspend your disbelief and become entranced by the animals' characters, personalities and conversations.
Pungo and Perdi are without doubt the stars of the show, along with their fifteen puppies. From the ear flicks to the head movements, each one of the animal puppets takes on the characteristics of the animals they are meant to be. When the cats make an appearance, they slink around in a feline manner that any cat owner would recognise.
The entire team of puppeteers and everyone involved with the puppets give flawless performances and deserve a special mention, as without them this musical wouldn't work.
As a family Musical, there were lots of children in the auditorium who all appeared to be enjoying the show. Especially during the parts when puppeteers perform within the auditorium and engage with the audience.
Musical director Leigh Stanford Thompson and director Bill Buckhurst have succeeded in bringing a touch of five-star Disney magic into Hammersmith this summer. The puppets, costumes and performances are all outstanding.
It runs until 30 August. Tickets: here.
Review: Elaine Chapman Photos: Johan Persson