REVIEW: THE STORY OF MY LIFE at Stage Door Theatre 10 Sept – 19 Oct 2024

‘perfectly pitched chamber musical’ ★★★★

One of the loveliest things in life is being around children and seeing the world anew through their eyes. In THE STORY OF MY LIFE best-selling author Thomas Weaver, is attempting to write a eulogy for his childhood friend, Alvin Kelby, but he is unable to find the words he needs.  In a series of flashbacks to their youth, the story of their friendship unfolds from their first meeting at infant school to their teenage years, when Thomas tries to protect Alvin who doesn’t fit in with the crowd. Having lost contact as adults, Thomas is now faced with his conflicted feelings and the need to find closure.

Neil Bartram (Music and Lyrics) and Brian Hill (Book) have created a romantic and charming musical, a story of unrequited love. It is a very clever and complex story combining flashback with the present day, allowing Thomas’ true feelings to reveal themselves and it all comes together in a satisfying conclusion.  Alvin’s backstory, his mother’s death when he is just nine, is seamlessly introduced as one of the reasons why he appears so young for his age.  It is exactly this innocence that is so sweet and sadly his strong attachment to Thomas is not reciprocated as they both become adults.  People move on, don’t they? They grow up. Unless the traumas of life are too much to bear.

Markus Sodergren as Thomas returns to The Stage Door Theatre after his OFFIE nominated lead performance in the musical  MARRY ME A LITTLE. The tone of his voice is so beautiful. It is also impressive that he is easily able to become that child and also to become that work obsessed adult (switching in a moment). Whilst Tim Edwards as Alvin is equally as accomplished, there is something special to mention. Stepping into the role at the eleventh hour, Edwards had only four days to learn it before press night. Clearly, he is someone who knows his profession extremely well, having had the discipline of working on cruise liners; learn the role in the morning, perform it in the evening. Plus, he comes from a family of musicians, it’s in his blood.

Fortunately, the pair are accompanied by a perfectly pitched chamber orchestra led by Aaron Clingham, which allows every single word and note of the performers to take first place. The scenery also works extremely well. Whilst it looks rather IKEA chic, all in stark white (even the cabin bag), the coldness it portrays matches the themes, with the dead Alvin standing out in relief in his beige suit against Thomas in a business-like navy blue. The two men are wonderful counterpoints in personality, appearance and dress.

Kudos to director Robert McWhir, for ensuring a complete artistic vision in which the story is a highlight. He ensures plenty of visual interest which draws the audience in, for a really close encounter with this heart-rending musical.

Lambco presents the UK premiere of the Broadway musical

THE STORY OF MY LIFE

At STAGE DOOR THEATRE

Above The Prince of Wales pub, Drury Lane

10 September - October 19

Box Office https://www.stagedoortheatre.co.uk/the-story-of-my-life-4-sept-19-oct/

Music and Lyrics by Neil Bartram

Book by Brian Hill

Directed by Robert McWhir

Performed by Markus Sodergren and Tim Edwards