YESOS Musical Theatre is performing Children of Eden at the Harlequin Theatre, Redhill until August 6. Jane McGowan was blown away by the incredible talent on display from such a young group of actors in this 5 STAR review
If you are looking for an inspirational, colourful, superbly sung, cleverly-choreographed show performed by a group of committed and outrageously talented young people, then get yourself along to the Harlequin in Redhill for youth theatre group YESOS’s stunning production of Children of Eden.
The show, written by the creator of Godspell and Wicked Stephen Schwartz, is based on the first nine books of Genesis and tells the story of Creation, moving on to the banishment of Adam and Eve, through the tragic story of Cain and Abel before ending with the triumphant tale of Noah’s Ark.
The note-perfect ensemble (which ranges in age from nine to 18) were polished and professional, while all the principles played their parts with aplomb from Ewan Murphy’s arrogant, questioning Cain and Daniel Thynne’s stoic Abel, to the tenderness portrayed between the beautifully-voiced Yonah (played by Louisa Grinyer) and Alex Moroni’s masterful Japeth.
Hugh Blayney was splendid in the role of Father – seamlessly switching between benevolence and wrath, his voice in turn tender and vengeful. Jacob Carter in the twin roles of Adam and Noah perfectly captured the inward struggle both men fought between their loyalty to the Father and their love for their families. The duet between Father and Noah, ‘The Hardest Part of Love’, was one of the standout moments of the show.
However, for me the night was all about Eve. Charlotte Coe was simply stunning as the curious wife of Adam who succumbs to temptation after a visit from the snake (artfully led by Mariella Atterbury) and also as the wiser, stronger Mama Noah in the second act. Coe’s vocals – which would not have been out of place on any West End stage – were flawless throughout from the haunting ‘Children of Eden’ to the glorious gospel of ‘Ain’t of Good’.
I – along with the rest of the audience if the standing ovation was anything to go by – came away feeling elated and sure in the knowledge that we had had a first glimpse of some stars of the future. Catch it if you can.
Children of Eden is running at the Harlequin Theatre until August 6, to book call 01737 276500 or visit harlequin.co.uk
For more great local theatre news and reviews check out our theatre section that includes wonderful pieces like our recent chinwag with X Factor runner-up and musical theatre star Rhydian Roberts ahead of his performance in the Little Shop of Horrors.
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