In a world of dramatic works turned into musicals (see: Beetlejuice, Death Becomes Her, and The Color Purple, The Lord of The Rings: A Musical Tale enters. Although the original production premiered in Toronto and London back in 2006 and 2008, this new production, which focused more on the telling of the iconic story from the perspective of hobbits, opened only just recently at the Watermill Theatre (UK) on 1 August 2023.
Australians now have the absolute pleasure to witness this incredible stage musical (starting off in Sydney, then moving on to Perth, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast). With the beauty of the State Theatre as the backdrop, audiences were blessed to witness an epic amplified. It all begins with Bilbo Baggins’ birthday party and a whole lot of audience interaction. The hobbits excitedly walk up and down the aisles of the stalls, chatting to audience members (including Bilbo himself, played by Laurence Coy), creating a welcoming atmosphere and setting the tone.
The onstage talent is quite overwhelming. Not only could these actors command the stage, but they would also often pick up instruments and play, dance, and embody characters that audiences have been reading about for over 80 years. Although A Musical Tale is based on the books of J.R.R. Tolkien, it’s hard not to instinctively draw comparisons to the filmic trilogy (The Fellowship of the Ring [2001], The Two Towers [2002], The Return of the King [2003]).
The vocality of several performers was quite literally identical to their screen companions, including Laurence Boxhall as Gollum, and Terence Crawford as Gandalf. Boxhall gives Andy Serkis a real run for his money. He moved so convincingly across the stage and even gave a musical performance of his own. Boxhall as Gollum is a real crowning achievement. Crawford has a booming voice identical to Sir Ian McKellen. It is fantastic to witness, especially for all the film lovers.
The ethereal Galadriel, played by Jemma Rix, is the equivalent to a beacon of light and had the pipes to match. Rix’s singing voice is otherworldly and really brought the other characters together reinforcing their strength and purpose. The musical numbers that she was featured in stole the hearts of the audience, raising the standard to new heights.
The set, props, puppetry, and lighting appeared to be nothing but a labour of love. In anticipation of witnessing big scenes with big monsters, this reviewer wondered, how are they going to do this on stage? And then, they proceeded to exceed expectations. This includes Gandalf’s battle with the Balrog, and Frodo and Samwise’s confrontation with the larger-than-life spider, Shelob. All crew including production design, puppeteers, and lighting technicians should be commended. It was a spectacle and an honour to be a part of the magic. Without any doubt, fans of The Lord of the Rings franchise, as well as the newbies, will absolutely adore this musical production.
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Reviewer attended the Opening Night on 11 January 2025.
The Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale is playing at the State Theatre, Sydney for 4 weeks only before moving to Perth, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast.
Tickets available here: The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale
Header image: Chicago Shakespeare Theatre – Spencer Davis Milford (Frodo) and Tony Bozzuto (Gollum) – Photo by Liz Lauren
