Jack

“Jack” is a brand new musical by Bristol composer Phil Dixon, with lyrics by Elizabeth Major. Its set in the 18th Century, centred around Jack Sheppard an apprentice Carpenter, come thief, who became a famous legend through his multiple escapes from prison. BMT are the first to put on this production, no mean feat to take on, and also a risk in a time where amateur groups are fighting for ticket sales and audiences, and it’s often a “safer” option to do a popular and well-known show. As a new show, I didn’t know what to expect at all, apart from snippets of information on the story from Director Matt Heaton, so I was excited to see something brand new.

As we entered the theatre, there was an open stage, revealing a static set that immediately created an ominous atmosphere. The lighting was dark with hints of green, with some smoke/haze effects, while a few cast members appeared in character during the pre-show, adding to the sense of unease. Dominating centre stage was an imposing gallows structure, large and striking, which clearly established the tone for the performance. The build for this worked so well with its dismantling and rebuilding mid show, very cleverly designed. A raised platform across the back of the stage, provided a variation in levels. On either side stood two tall flats, while a series of foldable flats spanned the width of the platform. These were opened and closed to signal different scene changes, with actors and stage furniture moving through the space beneath the platform. This design allowed for smooth and efficient transitions between scenes. Director Matthew Heaton had a tough job with so many scene changes to manage. The foldable flats really helped things run more smoothly, and it was clear the cast/crew knew exactly what they were doing when it came to moving pieces on and off stage, it all felt very organised. Even so, a few of the scene changes were a bit slow, which slowed the overall pace a little, but with that many transitions, it’s hard to see how that could be completely avoided. The “hanging” effects worked really well, I wasn’t sure how this was going to work but it was very effective, along with the huge imposing Gallows. I liked the placing of the prison cells up on the platform, this worked well for the escapes. I’m unsure if the escape methods in the show are the actual ones reported at the time, or even if these are known, I felt maybe these were a little simplistic, and if there is a way of making them look and feel a bit more realistic, especially the slipping off of the chains.  I’m thinking that even in the Victorian era it wouldn’t be that easy to escape, or maybe I’m wrong and that’s the joy in this, that it was so easy?

A recurring element in the songs was characters introducing themselves and setting up their story. I really liked how the ensemble used tableaux/freeze frames during these moments; it worked really well. I wondered whether a bit too much time is spent on these character introductions, and if moving more quickly to the core of the story, particularly Jack’s crimes and escapes in the first act, might help keep the pace up.

Musical Director Phil Dixon ably led the 8-piece band, the balance with the cast as I mentioned was good. The music as a whole felt appropriate in style for the story and feel of the piece. There are some lovely melody lines throughout.

The chorography was kept simple but effective and felt suitable for the themes. I enjoyed the human percussion section and the Thugs numbers.

The lighting design was very well thought out, enhanced the story, atmospheric and with levels and coverage appropriate for the story. Sound wise we did have a few issues at the end of Act 1, where I understand the sound desk, completely crashed and only one radio mic channel was working (frustratingly an offstage one) These things happen unfortunately, the cast continued and managed well. Apart from this the sound was consistent and well balanced throughout. I discovered in the interval that the lighting and sound technicians were all 1st year UWE students, so a quick shout out to them as they did so well.

The projections were just stunning, beautiful graphics by Ingrid Mengdehl, the animation by Aled Heaton of Jack running over the rooftops drew some giggles from the audience, for the right reasons.

The costumes were a real feature for me. I read the article in the programme with costume designer Catherine Price -Rowe with interest, I could really see all the little details, even the dirty stockings on Jack and it really enhanced the performance.

In reviewing the Principal characters: Jack Sheppard I really enjoyed your performance; you brought out a lovely innocent quality that was so endearing. I think it was important for him to come across as likeable to the audience as well as the Londoners.

Edgeworth BessAnother engaging performance from you, lovely vocals.

Jonathon Wild  Very villainous, but there was something likeable about the portrayal. Really strong acting and vocals. 

Joseph “Blueskin” Blake  a well balanced performance, with some strong vocals.

Joesph Haynes I felt you were almost more devious a baddy than Wild, as you were sneaky with it. Reporting back to him every time you saw Jack.

Thomas Durie and The team of Thugs: a nice team, you all worked well together with some great individual characters.

Joan Shepperd  A nice portrayal, of a mother frustrated with her wayward son, some nice clear vocals.

William Kneeebone an assured performance, confidently delivered.

Poll and Rose  a nice pairing, you worked well with Bess.

The Ensemble were very busy throughout with some lovely cameo performances and the scene changes which as I mentioned were very organised and well-drilled. A small note, but I could see some people standing behind the black curtain at the back, possibly doing a costume change which distracted me a little. You were all very dynamic in your roles and I could see all your individual characters coming through.

I think everyone involved should be so proud at what you have produced with this performance, there was much to like, and it’s so lovely to see new work being supported. Well Done all.   

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