Whilst focusing on the intricacies of your own daily routine, it can become very easy to forget about the community around us. A fast paced, nonstop cycle of commuting from A to B, battling through the busy commuting crowds and working a load of thankless work shifts can take their toll! However, wouldn’t it be great to gain a better perspective of your fellow commuter, to perhaps build on that sense of community…
© Robert Workman
Recipient of the 2008 Tony Award for Best Musical, In The Heights reflects on the many facets of living life in the thriving cosmopolitan of Washington Heights, from the extinguishing of dreams, to the paying of bills. Written by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Quiara Alegria Hudes, the productions’ structure shifts through a series of different perspectives; a succession of characters lives interlocked by universal themes of love, cultural heritage and heartbreak.
The production’s heart lies within Lin Manuel Miranda‘s heart thumping musical numbers, a carnival of feel good, show stopping, sassy scores, boldly guiding the audience through a procession of high energy dance routines, loveable characters and a contemporary narrative. With the Opening sequence, ‘In The Heights’ setting the benchmark for the entirety of the production, the cast well and truly deliver a marathon of a performance. Other musical numbers including ‘96,000′ , ‘The Club’ and ‘Enough’ add fire to the belly of the production, illuminating the space and building up the energy of the audience.
Phil Cornwell‘s musical direction excites and entertains, an auditory pick and mix of latin american rhythms and bold broadway jazz numbers that swirl around the space, whilst Drew McOnie‘s culturally rich and diverse choreography compliments the musical landscape. An amalgamation of dance styles performed by the leading cast and the multi talented ensemble, the worlds of Salsa, Hip Hop and Commercial dance are brought the fore, making for visually bold and stunning choreographic moments.
With the play’s overriding themes of community and cultural heritage serving as the moral compass, the dialogue seamlessly shifts from moments of English to Spanish, reiterating the importance of family and friendship. Sam Mackay‘s lively Usnavi leads the cast. As the owner of a Bodega trying to make ends meet, he endearingly finds himself admiring his love interest, Vanessa (Emma Kingston) from afar. David Badella‘s Kevin and Josie Benson‘s Camila personify the hard working and strong willed spirit of go getting entrepreneurs. A married couple intent on sustaining their taxi firm business of over 20 years, and creating a prosperous future for their studious daughter Nina (Christina Modestou), the pair radiate an effortless chemistry with ease. Victoria Hamilton-Barritt sizzles as sharp tongued business woman, Daniela. Not short on confidence or opinions, the hairdresser owner fascinates and charms as the resident gossip.
Luke Sheppard directs a firecracker of a performance, fuelled with passion, pride and unrivalled panache! In The Heights is a tale of our times, a youthful and dramatic production that embraces and celebrates life. 4/5
© Robert Workman
In The Heights is currently showing at The Southwark Playhouse until Saturday 7th June. For more information on the production, visit here…
Leave a Comment