Return To The Forbidden Planet

Return To The Forbidden Planet was a new show for me, and while I knew some of the music before I saw the show, I didn’t realise just how much of it I knew.  From the opening scene we were transported from the reality of our daily lives to SS Albatross as we were taken on a journey with the crew, in the words of The Theatre Guild into hyperspace...and beyond!

Based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest, this jukebox musical brought a lively and well thought out production to the stage. From principals to ensemble each one of them portrayed and maintained their own individual characterisation throughout the show. From Jonathan Proctor’s solid rock pop vocals to Claire Robertson’s amazing choreographed roller skating, we also saw a great range of talent in between with individuals each displaying strong acting and vocal ability across the principal line up.  The ensemble worked equally hard and it was evident that everyone made a huge contribution to the overall piece.  It is always a challenge and a risk taking on a show that isn’t done so often, but Theatre Guild worked as a very tight team to ensure the audience was not in any way disappointed with the end result.  

The work of the production (Navigation) team was very evident in the music, direction and choreography.  Making his debut a Musical Director, Alistair Peter brought his talents to bear ensuring vocals from both the principals and ensemble were of a high standard.  The vocal blend of the ensemble along with the band was well controlled. Jon Cuthbertson’s direction truly had us believing we were on that journey with The Crew of the spaceship, and Greg’s choreography was as always detailed and slick.

The set design enhanced the audience experience on the starship journey somewhere is space, with the cast’s detailed use of all the technical desks and displays, all of which were used and none forgotten. Stuart Poole ran his own tight ship with his team backstage, and the front of house crew made us feel welcome on board on the journey of SS Albatross into hyperspace...and beyond!

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