A touching new musical in London explores themes of time, love, and aging
London: A new musical has hit the West End, and it’s all about time, love, and home. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is now playing at The Ambassadors Theatre in Covent Garden.
This show first debuted in 2019 at Southwark’s Playhouse. It’s based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story from 1921. The tale follows Benjamin Button, who is born old and ages backward while everyone else grows older.
Directed by Jethro Compton, the story unfolds in a quiet Cornish village, spanning the early to late 20th century, starting from Benjamin’s birth in 1918.
The cast of 13 is super talented, singing, playing instruments, and bringing to life the villagers and Benjamin’s loved ones throughout his journey.
The music blends folk-inspired tunes with sea shanties, and the cast’s strong Cornish accents add a special touch. The lyrics are both funny and heartfelt, making for a delightful experience.
Some standout songs for me were A Little Life and A Matter of Time, which had such a lively vibe.
Knowing the story, I braced myself for tears at the end. While the musical was definitely moving, it also had plenty of light-hearted moments, like the comical drunken fisherman waiting for his love for decades.
The set design is fantastic, resembling a wooden harbor with stairs, fishing nets, and crates. It really transports you from Benjamin’s lonely attic to the bustling Pickled Crab pub.
John Dagleish shines as Benjamin Button, pulling at your heartstrings, while Clare Foster, who plays his love interest Elowen, showcases incredible vocals and a mix of humor and emotion.
This musical is a remarkable exploration of time and what it means to grow old with those we love. As we watch Benjamin drift away from his loved ones, it reminds us that aging, while often dreaded, is a shared human experience.
I never thought I’d feel grateful for growing old, but this show changed my perspective. That’s what makes it such a unique theater experience.
