BIG the Musical

BIG the Musical is an adaptation of the 1988 film which sees a young boy Josh Baskin wishing to be grown up. His wish is granted by the Zoltar machine at a local carnival and suddenly wakes up in an adult body having to navigate the difficulties and realities of adulthood, like getting a job and a girlfriend.

Initially we meet young Josh which was well played by Emilia Unwin, together with friends Charlie and Billy Kopecki (Alana Haines and Barnaby Seddon). Charlie and Billy were eventually persuaded that big Josh was still Josh and their scenes together throughout were convincing. A nice portrayal from Arabella Tabberer-Catt who played Cynthia Benson, with an eye for young Josh, which made him feel rather awkward. I also liked Catherine Crosswell as Mrs Baskin, Josh’s mum who sang a heart-felt ‘Say Good Morning to Mom’.

The role of big Josh was in the very capable hands of George Chambers. Whilst obviously an adult, George played the role with a boyish charm which was most impressive and natural, together with a fine voice. Disappearing to New York, with the realisation of what it means to be a big boy, Josh wants to go home, but needs to search for another Zoltar machine to make it possible.

In the meantime, Josh realises he needs to find a job and meets the boss of a toy company George Macmillan, whose sales had plummeted. As an adult with his boyish knowledge of which toys work well, he impresses George and his given a responsible job. George was played with great presence by Hugh Farey. Musical numbers ‘Fun’ and ‘Welcome to Macmillan Toys’ were fun, and George and Hugh’s dance number on a stage wide keyboard worked very well.

Another with a strong voice was Sheridan Walden as Susan Lawrence, in charge of marketing, who took a fancy to Josh and eventually goes for a meal and back to his place. George sang ‘Stars’ with a lovely blend of innocence and Sheridan followed with ‘Little Susan Lawrence’  remembering her younger days and the first love of her life, which was a sweet number.

Concluding the first act was the annual company bash with a great company number ‘Cross the Line’. Throughout the youth members of the company supported the action well and the youngest of these took their bow at the end of the Act.

Early in the second Act, Catherine (Mrs Baskin) sang ‘Stop Time’ which I found quite moving with its expression of feelings experienced by every parent. ‘Coffee Black’ was a slick company number and I found Hugh’s passage when he felt Josh was like the son he never had, was well handled. ‘The Real Thing’ sang by Susan’s friends was part of a strong scene and I also liked the scene when Josh was trying to explain to Susan that he was only 12 years of age. The story concluded with the youngsters repeating the opening sequence of hopscotch and ball playing and it was a lovely moment when Josh and his mum were reunited. There were numerous other named characters including Joe Rolt as Paul Seymour, Emily Chambers as Mrs Kopecki, Jess Gilbert as Mr Kopecki and Rob Finney as Mr Baskin, who all gave good support.

The set comprised a simple format with three central doors providing additional exits and entrances and the carnival stalls and other items and props used were of good quality. The singing and dancing, all to backing tracks were well handled and all supported by a good level of sound, lighting and costumes. It was a pleasure to return to the Conquest Theatre and thank you for the warm welcome.

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