We round up the reviews for the return of Conor McPherson’s show based on the music of Bob Dylan.
WhatsOnStage: **** “Perhaps the largest flaw is that despite a strong ensemble cast it’s difficult to fully connect with any one story, as there are a few too many to allow them room to fully develop. But this show is definitely about the music, and it should be seen for the performances alone.”
Evening Standard: **** “If you want an un-traditional, thoughtful, Dylan-infused seasonal show, here it is.”
The Times: *** “If you’re a Bob Dylan fan — and, in fact, even if you’re only mildly curious about his songs — there is plenty to enjoy in this West End transfer. Beware of the structural flaws, though.”
Culture Whisper: ***** “McPherson takes tracks spanning 1963-2012 and inserts them into one winter in 1934. He describes it as ‘a conversation between the songs and the story’; they illuminate each other and embody the storytelling heart of folk music.”
Musical Theatre Review: *** “Despite all the difficulties this production has in replicating the magic of the original cast, there is no denying that orchestrator Simon Hale’s arrangements of Dylan’s songs are majestic, and remain Girl from the North Country’s crowning achievements. From 1970’s ‘Sign on the Window’ to the 2012 song ‘Duquesne Whistle’, the combination of Dylan’s Nobel-winning lyricism, the 1930s setting and more modern vocal stylings remain electric to listen to.”
The Upcoming: ***** “With a tender dialogue between acting and singing, McPherson moulds a story for the stage that both touches the heart and pleases the ears. Smooth transitions and a deft cast give shape to Dylan’s poetic music.”
Broadway World: *** “With its themes of austerity and lack of opportunity, Girl From The North Country is completely in tune with sentiments across the UK, but it’s just a shame that the show has lost a bit of its soul since its triumphant debut.”
British Theatre Guide: “Anybody who saw Girl from the North Country first time around is likely to want a second chance to enjoy the experience, while those who missed out should race to the Gielgud and enjoy what is undoubtedly one of the best shows currently playing in London.”
Girl from the North Country continues to play at the Gielgud Theatre until the 1st February. To book tickets click here or visit: Love Theatre.com, Encore Tickets, From the Box Office, Last Minute.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk or See Tickets.