Review: The Messiah

Hey readers!
It's time for my review of the The Messiah.
Two actors, with the help of one opera singer, portray a cast of dozens in this new comedy of Biblical proportions by the Olivier Award-winning writer of the West End and Broadway hit 'The 39 Steps'. The Messiah tells the tale of a travelling theatre troupe who have arrived by camel in the ancient city of London to enact a re-telling of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Leading The Messiah is comic giant Hugh Dennis, in the role of Maurice Rose. Dennis gives an utterly hilarious performance, which can largely be attributed to his impeccable comic timing and delivery of certain lines. In the midst of act two, the character of Maurice goes through a nervous breakdown live onstage, allowing Dennis to demonstrate his range of acting abilities. His swift change in emotions was carried out rather well. Additionally, the interactions between Hugh Dennis and the audience proved to be a highlight of the production. By Dennis's side is John Marquez, as Ronald Bream. The two leading men have excellent chemistry with one another and seem well-matched. Marquez creates an excellent characterisation for the role, helping him to win over the audience. The two men are joined by opera singer, Lesley Garret, who portrays the role of Mrs. Leonora Flyte. Garrett has a considerably smaller role than her co-stars, appearing only to give the audience small segments of opera, but nevertheless there is no denying that she has a stunning voice.

The Messiah could potentially be likened to that of a play produced by the Mischief Theatre Company, the creators of the hit comedy 'The Play That Goes Wrong'. The Messiah essentially revolves around a telling of The Messiah where, everything that could go wrong, does. The concept behind the idea is rather comical. It is not honour that will appeal to everyone, hence as to why there have been mixed reviews, however I would say that the majority of the audience seemed to find it hilarious. I personally found the funniest aspect of The Messiah to be its use of audience participation. The interactions between Dennis and the audience were hysterical, and I really wish it had been featured more heavily.

Now for my final verdict on The Messiah. I give The Messiah...

Whilst not all of the humour will be to everyone's taste, the cast are outstanding, and hence why I have decided to award The Messiah with 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