REVIEW: Play On!
***** [5 stars]
A Five-Star Triumph: Play On! Dazzles at Salisbury Playhouse
Play On! at Salisbury Playhouse is nothing short of magical. Transporting audiences to the vibrant heart of 1940s Harlem, this stunning jazz musical, based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, offers a thrilling blend of soulful music, dynamic choreography, and captivating performances. Destined to be as iconic a Shakespeare reimagining as Clueless and 10 Things I Hate About You, Play On! from the ineffable Talawa Theatre Company is an absolute must-see.
At the centre of this lively retelling is Vy, a talented songwriter determined to make it in the male-dominated world of 1940s jazz. With echoes of Duke Ellington’s signature melodies, combined with Shakespeare’s brilliant plot of mistaken identities, this musical hits every note, both literally and figuratively.
The cast brings her story to life with an infectious energy that fills the theatre from the first note to the final bow. Standout performances come from Earl Gregory as The Duke, commanding the stage with his smooth charisma, Cameron Bernard Jones as the lively and compelling Rev, and Koko Alexandra, who shines as Lady Liv. Every performance brims with talent, energy and heart - making Play On! a masterful celebration of ensemble theatre.
Llewellyn Jamal (Image 1); Koko Alexandra (Image 2); Lifford Shillingford and Tanya Edwards (Image 3) - 📸 Ellie Kurttz
Michael Buffong’s direction shines, with a minimalistic set design by Ultz that creates entrancing immersion while letting the live jazz band and the cast take the spotlight. The choreography, courtesy of Kenrick Sandy, is a masterclass in its own right. From sharp isolations to infectious dance breaks, the entire cast moves with an exuberance that had every audience member foot-tapping along.
What makes Play On! even more special is the emotional resonance carried through the music. With goosebumps-inducing vocal performances and faultless harmonies, the Ellington tracks blend seamlessly with the Bard’s beloved narrative, elevating the joy, sorrow, and hilarity of the 400-year-old script to new heights. This expert marriage of jazz with Shakespeare proves to be a captivating musical journey brimming with joy.
Ensemble - 📸 Ellie Kurttz
In recent memory, few shows at Salisbury Playhouse have been as spellbinding as Play On! – it is a dazzling celebration of Black talent and creativity that deserves every standing ovation it receives.
Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare, jazz, or simply great theatre, Play On! is a theatrical experience you won’t want to miss. Immersive, bold, and utterly infectious, this production is destined to become a landmark in British theatre. Five stars, and every one of them well-deserved.