Kipps

KIPPS The New Half a Sixpence Musical

Based on the semi-autobiographical novel “Kipps” by H.G. Wells, this reworking of the musical “Half a Sixpence” by Julian Fellowes, returning the musical to its literary roots. back together with the musical team George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, that co-creator Cameron Mackintosh first put together to create the smash-hit stage version of Mary Poppins with Disney.

Coming into the Brewhouse Burton, to the sounds of Edwardian music hall numbers gently shifting the audience spirits into a receptive mood, setting the atmosphere for what was to come. 

Arthur Kipps, a very engaging character, a subtlety restrained performance by Ross Harris, as the ‘fish out of water’ orphan draper who, after receiving an unexpected inheritance, is suddenly thrust into the almost alien, status ridden lifestyle of the entitled wealthy classes. 

His childhood friend Ann Pornick, Paige Upton, owner of one of the sixpenny halves, a token of friendship shared as he departs to his drapery shop apprenticeship, their emotive interaction was excellent, lovely voice to. 

The well drilled efficient sales team at Shalford’s Drapery Emporium, after hours discuss the things, they would do if they had “Money to Burn” Great movement and humour throughout this number.

Kipps has his eye on one of his customers, a well to do lady Helen Walsingham, Chloe Lang, a lovely, nuanced performance, disapproving of her oh so entitled mother played by Jules Lowe, and dubious financial investor brother James, Dominic White, lovely observations all round.  Helen is Arthur’s perfect vision of a true lady, leading us nicely into “She’s Too Far Above Me”. 

Courtesy of a serendipitous meeting with ‘Swiss army’ theatrical Chitterlow, exuberantly portrayed by Alan Lowe, taking a shine to Kipps, he breaks the news and assists in securing his inheritance. Arthur’s newfound wealth cue reprise of Money To Burn complete with banjo and inventive cast choreography.

Costumes were fabulous throughout, if I was being extra picky there were a few modern style boot heels, but they certainly got away with the essence of style; a big hats off to all involved in that. Good use of the cast setting the props for the scene changes. 

Director Becky Winfield, together with her Production Team, Assistant Director Chris Moss, Choreographer Abbi Burns and Musical Director Tim Robinson all jelled well with their respective roles to bring Kipps to the Brewhouse stage. The musicianship was excellent, lively, poignant, era appropriate.

As time progresses, Kipps attends posh soiree after posh soiree, runs into Ann, now working as a chambermaid for Lady Punnet, Alison Broadley. His engagement to Helen becomes increasingly fraught, realisation that he doesn’t belong in the world of the upper classes, comes to a head with embezzlement of his money by James.

This frees him to pursue Ann. The interplay with all the cast was believable and very effective.  Meeting up with his Shalford work colleagues, a swift marriage to Ann ensues, giving us the  big finish with the brilliant iconic “Flash, Bang. Wallop” 

 

 

 

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