Lizzie

Milky Way Productions’ Lizzie is described as a musical but might better be described as Rock Opera come Rock Concert. Performed on a reduced stage space with the band prominent and visible, this almost sung through show is very music focused. Lizzie is the story of Lizzie Borden, famously accused and acquitted of the brutal axe murder of her father and stepmother.

Featuring a two-level set representing the Borden home and the adjacent barn, designed by Luke Miller, the home is dominated by two prominently lit portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Borden. The costume design, by actress Sarah McCabe, is interesting, with traditional in Act One, with beautiful 1890s costuming, and Lizzie dressed in Marian blue, even though the plot indicates her guilt. Act II costuming is punk rock 1890s - with similar styling to the musical Six. Comparisons with Six are perhaps inevitable, although Lizzie predates Six by several years.

Lizzie features four female characters. The titular Lizzie is played with gusto and huge voice by Lukas Perez, who manages to portray both strength and vulnerability in a highly energised anchoring performance. Brittany Isaia is strong as older sister Emma, in a very admirable performance although aesthetically I would have loved to have seen tattoos covered in Act I and visible in Act II rather than the reverse. Sarah McCabe’s maid Bridget Sullivan, with strong Irish accent, is formidable, with an “other worldly” air. Jessica Huysing rounds out the cast beautifully as neighbour Alice Russel, both sapphic love interest and Lizzie’s potential undoing. All four attack the show in high energy, strong voiced performances.

The band, ably led by Musical Director Atari Komoto, is excellent with fabulous work from all including Sarah Curren’s strong lead guitar, and the lovely work of cellist Kiara Burke as we return from interval.

At times the high volume and belting can make lyrics hard to discern, and choreographer Naomi Capon’s quirky and unpretty choreography may not be to all tastes - but this in an interesting show.

Great to see a new show, another quality production from emerging theatre company Milky Way, fast developing a reputation for shows that are dark, and feature lots of blood.

Kimberley Shaw