Madison Mayer’s show about love and climate change is consistently funny but initially feels a little muddled in its intent.
It really takes a bold writer in a musical to be a combination of rom-com and a cabaret surrounding the topic of climate change, but in many ways Madison Mayer’s Bombshell really succeeds in combining these effectively.
Set in a nightclub and with a cabaret style set up, Bombshell follows the story of Scarlett who uses her show to highlight the impact of climate change and what it means for the future – which is taken increasingly to new heights particularly when she meets and falls in love with Tony, heading to an unexpectedly dark conclusion that gives the audience food for thought.
While on the surface, Mayer’s writing can make the approach seem a little bit trivial and almost mocking of the subject of climate change, as the hour long show unfolds there is real depth and darkness to the story that has plenty of twists and turns along the way – particularly towards the end. There is real power and punch as we see Scarlett get more and more passionate about highlighting the devastation of climate change but sees her taking a darker turn – particularly when certain revelations about her boyfriend tony are revealed.
Directed by Emory Kemph (who also stars in the show), the story does admittedly take a little time to get going which given the hour long running time could be tightened up further and can make its intent feel muddled at least initially . This being said the sheer energy and performances from the cast (despite some trouble with a fake moustache – which added somehow to the comedy!) keep the audience invested in the events as they unfold. The use of audience participation in a mainly subtle way doesn’t quite pay off – but with expansion of the show itself could be an integral part of Bombshell.
The songs are filled with humour, but uses that humour to deliver a serious message about how the small changes that we can all make can make a difference in protecting our environment. Composed by Aila Swan, the music is light and playful while the lyrics help to change the audience’s perspectives as the show goes on.
Overall, I feel as though there is still room for development for the show to build even more to make for a longer production without ever becoming preachy. It is funny and by the end a powerful show that will get you thinking about the little changes that can make a big difference in the long run – no matter how hard they are.
By Emma Clarendon
Bombshell will play at the Bread & Roses Theatre until the 14th June. It will then head to New Wimbledon Theatre on the 26th June and Drayton Arms Theatre on the 27th & 28th July.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️