It's time for my review of Caroline, or Change.
Based loosely on writer Tony Kushner’s life, Caroline, or Change is set in Louisiana in the 1960s where Noah is struggling with the death of his mother, and his father’s remarriage to her best friend. He spends his time with their maid, Caroline, who works in the family’s basement. Caroline, who has a family dependant on her, faces a moral dilemma when a novel opportunity to fund her family presents itself.
The best aspect of this production of Caroline, or Change is its stellar cast. Sharon D. Clarke, in the leading role of Caroline Thibodeaux, is truly and utterly astonishing. In a role she appears to be perfect for, Clarke has created an excellent characterisation. When we first meet Caroline, she is rather cold and describes herself as "mean" and "tough". However, as the show goes on we begin to see Caroline show more and more of her inner emotions, and this culminated in the song 'Lot's Wife'. Clarke brings the house down with this number; it would be an understatement to call it a showstopper. There are several other cast members within the ensemble who stand out, including Abiona Omonua and Teddy Kempner. Omonua, in the role of Caroline's free-spirited daughter, gives a very convincing portrayal and gives an all-round outstanding performance. Kempner, as Mr. Stopnick, gives an equally admirable performance and I found him utterly captivating to watch; from the moment he steps on stage he commands the stage with his presence. Additionally, child actor Aaron Gelkoff, as Noah Gellman, also gives a superb performance. I found Gelkoff to be extremely believable in this role and the dynamic created between him and Sharon D. Clarke was particularly interesting to watch.
Caroline, or Change is largely sung through, with a small portion of scattered lines. The lyrics were written by Tony Kushner, who also wrote the book, whilst the music has been composed by Jeanine Tesori. The musical is comprised of over 50 songs, and whilst there were a few of the songs which weren't particularly to my liking, the majority of the score is remarkable. For example, Clarke's show topping number 'Lot's Wife' is truly something quite special. The song features an exceedingly catchy rhythm, however it is in fact the lyrics which I hold the most admiration for. The lyrics help us gain a further understanding of the character of Caroline, which allows her to express all of her hidden-away emotions.
Other significant aspects of this production include the clever choreography by Ann Yee, as well as the well-designed lighting by Jack Knowles. The orchestrations, under the direction of musical supervisor Nigel Lilley, were also sublime!
Now for my final verdict on Caroline, or Change. I give Caroline, or Change...
Whilst certain elements of the book were not to my liking, I found the cast and the majority of the score and creative aspects to be excellent, hence why I have decided to award Caroline, or Change three stars!
Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.
Thanks for reading!
-The Reviewer
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