The premise of Space Dogs has to go down as one of the most curious for a new musical. Telling the true story (albeit with a few creative liberties) of the 1950s Space Race between the US and the Soviet Union, it focuses on Laika, one of the first animals in space and the first living creature to orbit the Earth aboard Sputnik 2. Written and performed by Nick Blaemire and Van Hughes, this high-energy one-act show leans wholeheartedly into the comedy and absurdity of its extraordinary subject matter.
Blaemire and Hughes play every character, including the titular dog, alongside more than 40 others with the help of an array of wonderfully cute cuddly toys. The human figure given the greatest focus is the enigmatic "Chief Designer" – the top-secret Soviet scientist responsible for sending Laika into orbit. In one of the show's more fascinating historical details, we learn that his identity remained hidden from the public until a decade after his death, when he was finally revealed to be Sergei Korolev.
The evening is punctuated by a series of original songs spanning rock, pop and folk-inspired numbers. There are unmistakable echoes of Flight of the Conchords in the sheer ridiculousness of the whole affair (meant entirely as a compliment), while the songs themselves are consistently catchy and memorable. A cast album is also available, and it's well worth a listen. Even more impressive is the fact that the pair perform all of the music live, playing multiple instruments and creating loops on stage. The intimate setting of The Other Palace Studio proves to be the perfect venue for a production of this scale.
Surprisingly, despite being very much a comedy, Blaemire and Hughes also inject genuine heart into the production. Beneath the laughs lies a thoughtful exploration of the ethics surrounding the animals sent into space, giving the show a surprising emotional depth.
Alongside director Will Blum, Blaemire and Hughes have crafted a production that never takes itself too seriously. Frequent fourth wall breaks ensure the humour never lets up, yet because the message is delivered with such warmth and without ever feeling preachy, it lands all the more effectively. The show not only entertains but also inspires curiosity, leaving audiences wanting to learn more about this fascinating chapter of history.
Space Dogs plays at The Other Palace Studio until 9 August. This is one mission well worth boarding.
Review: Jack Shaw Photo: Alex Brenner