With the year drawing to a close, we look back over the musicals that wowed our critics in 2019. It hasn’t been easy to choose, but here we go…
JO LITSON – EDITOR
The cast of Come From Away. Photograph © Jeff Busby
On the face of it, the diversion of New York-bound planes to Gander in Newfoundland as a result of the September 11 terrorist attack doesn’t sound like the stuff of musical theatre, but Come From Away charms your socks off. Canadian husband-and-wife team David Hein and Irene Sankoff have written a joyous, refreshing musical that plays by its own rules. With its toe-tapping, Celtic-infused folk-rock score, and its heartfelt message about the power of community, it raises the spirits and touches the heart. At a time when kindness and compassion often seem to be in short supply, it’s a beautiful, inspiring production.
West Side Story (Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, Opera Australia)
Julie Lea Goodwin and Alexander Lewis in West Side Story on Sydney Harbour. Photograph © Prudence Upton
Comments
Log in to join the conversation.