A high-energy show demonstrating superb emerging talent, a perfect introduction to the intergenerational joy of musicals.
Performed at the timeless Liverpool Empire theatre this show brings to life the classic 70’s film ‘Bugsy Malone’. The story follows a gang war between ‘Fat Sam’, the charming yet slightly chaotic owner of Fat Sam’s Grand Slam speakeasy. His rival is ‘Dandy Dan’, a dashing and sinister figure, with their race to acquire ‘splurge guns’ ripping through New York. Central to the story is the charming character of Bugsy Malone and his budding romance with a rising starlet named Blousey, balanced by Bugsy’s previous affair with the enigmatic and beautiful cabaret singer Tallulah. This musical comedy loosely follows the story of gangsters Bugs Moran and Al Capone in 1920s New York.
The central focus of the show is the outstanding cast, with Bugsy Malone being unique in having a central cast consisting entirely of teenagers. The standout figures were Blousey (Delilah Bennet-Cardy) and Fat Sam (Isham Sankoh). Recognition must also be given to an exceptional performance by Bugsy (Shaun Sharma) on his stage debut. The cast interacted with both the audience and the orchestra with perfect comedic timing. Without exposing the story, a scene involving Knuckles, Fat Sam and a staircase was so brilliant and hilarious that it should be approached with as much trepidation as a splurge gun! The dance scenes throughout were electrifying and the solo musical performances sung by Blousey left me and my colleague astounded. The cast as a whole, much like Sharma’s portrayal of Bugsy, were endearing and impressive. After seeing this cast perform I left thoroughly convinced that for some shows adults are best left seated in the stalls!
The stagecraft used to illustrate the titular car chase was a mesmerising display and when coupled with the cast, created a far better scene than Hollywood could muster. The use of paintball guns and whipped cream provided laughs and kept the action scenes upbeat and fun. This show truly demonstrates the ageless nature of talent and the range of young stage actors. Bugsy Malone appeals to all ages, with older patrons engaged by the history and legacy of its original film, and younger audiences drawn in by the lively performing and acrobatics . The relatively short runtime with Act 1 running for 50 minutes and Act 2 running for 45 minutes further makes this show attractive for families with younger musical fans.
In summary, this play was an utter delight to review with a cast who burst with confident swagger and energy. I would recommend this show to families or theatre fans with younger children, and first time musical attendees. Catch this production soon or at another theatre on its tour, the last showing in Liverpool is on the 11th of February.