Two single people alone in a large city seeking the same things in life, love, acceptance and marriage. Shelley Rivers and Markus Sodergren perform Marry Me A Little at The Stage Door above The Prince of Wales pub in the heart of London’s West End and is a superb location for one of Off West End’s newest venues.

The cabaret-style seating allows groups of friends to sit together. Owned by Greene King public houses you can order food and drink to be served at your table before the show begins. A real novel treat for all theatregoers.

Rivers and Sodergren perform separately never crossing each other’s path throughout the performance although they closely share the same stage and furniture in their respective flats. At times sharing the sofa but never touch or interact with each other.

As a first-timer to Stephen Sondheim’s musical score, it’s an easy-listening sixty-five-minute musical. Performed by an exceptionally strong duo. Rivers certainly has an amazing voice and reaches notes I could only dream of. There were a couple of occasions when I thought Sodergren’s voice was quiet although I am not sure if it could have been where I was seated on the side of the stage.

Aaron Clingham is a marvel accompanying the cast on the keyboard. Perfectly in time with the cast throughout and never missed a note. I am in awe of those who can follow musical scores and make playing instruments look effortless.

As a regular reviewer for producer Richard Lambert, his work is never repetitive although the majority is musically based. Marry Me A Little is certainly worlds apart from his production of Boys in the Buff but equally as entertaining.

If you’re looking for a tastefully produced Sondheim then look no further. Just don’t make my rookie mistake and sit in front of the stage for a clearer sound. For more information on this musical and future productions to be performed at The Stage Door, please use the link below.

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LAMBCO

Four Stars.

Cast

Shelley Rivers

Markus Sodergren

Creative team includes
Director Robert McWhir
Musical Director Aaron Clingham
Designer David Shields
Lighting Designer Richard Lambert