We take a look at what is being said about Joseph Houston and William Whelton’s revival, the show’s first UK non-replica staging.
WhatsOnStage: “Despite a few inconsistencies, its infectious energy, creative staging and moments of genuine theatrical magic make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience for fans old and new. A must-watch for Wildcats past and present.”
The Guardian: “It’s dizzying and dazzling – never more so than during the revival of Bop to the Top, led by Luke Bayer and Caitlin Tipping as siblings Ryan and Sharpay Evans, who are every bit as entertainingly grating as their screen counterparts. Aaron Renfree’s nimble choreography rotates montages from the all-important science competition, basketball game and musical callbacks, as Troy and Gabriella race against the clock to make it to auditions.”
The Reviews Hub: “As one of the iconic songs states We’re All In This Together and nothing is truer than this production. The whole cast are wonderfully collaborative; although shining in their solo moments, the scenes featuring them all as a group are extremely well rehearsed and inject a fun feeling that is present throughout. This is a show that will surely Bop to the Top of theatre ratings, because it’s impossible not to leave the theatre grinning from ear to ear. They’re soarin’, flying – and breakin’ five stars.”
Theatre & Tonic: “This stage adaptation offers audiences the chance to relive those memories together. Despite its shortcomings, it still has the potential to move audiences. At the very least, I could feel the joy in the gymnasium. And as the cast grows more connected over the course of the run, that sense of collective energy could bring the production even more to life.”
All That Dazzles: “Tapping into the nostalgia associated with the story, it would have been very easy for the creatives to stick to the status quo and not offer anything new. However, this production refreshingly offers bold choices in the staging and direction that work for the most part. With a sensational cast all putting their own spins on the iconic roles, this is a feel-good production that sets out to do nothing more than thrill and entertain, ticking all the boxes in that regard.”
London Theatre.co.uk: “This production does the original proud, and, with its infectious energy and positive message, it also has the potential to be the ‘start of something new’ for a whole new generation of theatregoers.”
Theatre Weekly: “And while the story may be familiar, the sheer joy of this production feels completely fresh. Directors Joseph Houston and William Whelton clearly understand exactly what audiences want from High School Musical. While remaining faithful to the film that captured a generation, they have crafted something energetic and inventive, making full use of the theatre.”
West End Best Friend: “Yes, this show may be cheesy in parts, and not every number lands with quite the same impact, but it’s also a lot of fun, with strong choreography, impressive staging and a cast who are clearly having so much fun. If you want a nostalgic night out, an opportunity to revisit some familiar songs and a show that doesn’t take itself too seriously, High School Musical is worth a visit. It gives you the chance to go back to your younger self, sing along to songs you grew up with and have fun.”
The Stage: “Boisterous anniversary production that nails the energy and appeal of the original.”
London Theatre 1: “Kaycee Stroh, who was in the films and now has a supporting role as drama teacher Ms Darbus, was inspired casting: her line of argument about how poorly funded the performing arts are compared to other areas of the school curriculum was always going to go down well on press night. There was a staginess about her that struck an excellent balance between being a larger-than-life character and not straying into stereotype or caricature.”
Time Out: “High School Musical is a film with a simple, cheesy message about being yourself and working together as a team. It’s a feeling the production embodies throughout. It’s hard to single out individuals from the ensemble because the production is such a team effort, but they really are the MVP here. The creative team clearly knows this, upscaling many of the film’s stripped back songs into all-out whole cast productions and showing that the show knows its strengths.”
Broadway World: “While the “immersive” elements may seem mostly visual at first glance, the company is hands on with crowd engagement. The cheerleaders kick off the action by teaching you the Wildcats cheer, and there are plenty of call-and-response moments à la real-life matches including cameras on the audience. It’s fun.”
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