Loserville is part of a new wave of musicals riding on the back of the Glee phenomenon. These kids are united by their love of computer communications rather than a musical theatre obsession. The music is poppy but with a grungy feel.
The story is easy enough to grasp and predictable almost from the start. The school’s outcast brainiacs are in despair as they debate how they will ever be able to ‘get a girl’ hanging out in the computer room and investigating a way to make their intellectual dreams come. Michael is on the verge of making technological history, by making two computers talk to each other, transmitting messages from any two places in the world. Lucas hopes his book (hints at Star Wars) will be published. The other two just resemble mad, slightly unhinged science nerds. The mission: get the girl without compromising on intelligence.
The retro styling of the musical is brilliant: with Grease-esque name card introductions and geek-chic costumes, it is a production that looks great. It is sharp too, these kids don’t miss a step, I was particularly impressed with the spectacular unison dance work from the chorus. And Nick Winston deserves a mention for his innovative and funky choreography.
The cast are young and sprightly and, with a complete lack of generation difference, there is a definite feeling that kids rule the school. (The school principal is only heard through the tannoy.) They all seem to be having a super fun time. The core group of four boys are all brilliant; with in-tune vocals and accurate accents, they become merged entirely with their alter ego characters. Aaron Sidwell as Michael Dork and Richard Lowe as Lucas Lloyd are particularly mesmerising to watch. Eliza Hope Bennett has the right attitude as “pretty and brainy” Holly but I found her rather flat singing an annoying distraction.
The band blast out providing an essential backbeat for this energetic production, they are led by Jim Henson.
Loserville is a fun and entertaining new musical and showcases a talented and enthusiastic cast.
More information and book tickets here.
http://www.loservillethemusical.com/