101 Dalmatians, The Musical (photo credit: Johan Persson)
101 Dalmatians, The Musical. The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.
Everyone is familiar with 101 Dalmatians – either the 1961 Disney animated classic, or the 1996 Disney live action version. This show has nothing to do with either, but the plot is basically the same as it is based on the 1956 novel by Dodie Smith (which both Disney versions were also based on). This is also a musical, with brand new songs.
The story itself has been updated, although somehow also managing to keep a nostalgic feel (costumes and set pieces etc). It therefore feels timeless which is lovely. The featured couple of the piece have different jobs here: Danielle (Jessie Elland) works at a dog rescue centre, and Tom (Samuel Thomas) is an aspiring fashion designer. An abandoned dog comes in and Danielle ends up adopting him herself. He’s (you guessed it) a Dalmatian and she calls him Pongo. Whilst walking him in the park she meets Tom who also has a Dalmatian (Perdi) and they fall in love (both the humans and the dogs). Fast forward and the couple (the “Dearlys”) are married and the dogs are expecting a litter. Tom finally gets an interview for a job and we’re introduced to our antagonist – Cruella De Vil (a de-vilishly camp performance by Kym Marsh) who runs fashion empire Haus of De Vil. Of course as you well know, she “WANTS THOSE PUPPIES” to turn into her latest design. Marsh is wonderful in this role, relishing every cutting remark she spits out. A deliciously evil villain.
You will be wondering how they get around the fact that the majority of the cast are canines. Well, they’re puppets. Beautiful puppets that are operated by very skilled puppeteers – that are also fantastic actors, singers, and dancers. They’re just a joy to watch and bring so much magic to the show.
It’s a visual treat, but not only that, it’s heartfelt. It will absolutely get you in the feels and if you’re a dog lover there are lots of moments that will relate.
This whole show is an absolute joy. And an absolute joy for all ages.
It has everything, great cast, superb songs, it’s captivating, it’s funny, in short – it’s wonderful.
Oh, and there’s a very special guest at the end of the show (no spoilers!).
5 stars. You’d be barking to miss it.
