REVIEW | Allegiance, Charing Cross Theatre London
★★★★★
Reviewer - CHARLENE
What a spectacular show to kick off 2023!
Premiering in San Diego back in 2012. a Broadway transfer in 2015 and a successful movie; Allegiance is now having a well-earned UK premiere in London. Going in unaware of the musical and little of the historical aspects resulted in seeing something that was both entertaining and educational. It says a lot about a show when it ignites the brain to want to know more.
Allegiance is set during the Japanese American internment of World War II and inspired by George Takei’s personal experiences and who also stars in the musical, making his London debut at the age of 85! Allegiance, follows the story of the Kimura family and their struggles in the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Tara Overfield Wilkinson directs and choreographs this production and in George’s words " it has been my lifelong mission to tell the story of the internment so that we remember the lessons of history and do no repeat our mistakes. "
Charing Cross Theatre provides the perfect element of intimacy needed to execute this beautiful story. The audience surround the stage which enables both a great view of the action as well as providing an immersive element. It enables you to be part of the ambience as well as soaking the performance to its full potential. The whole stage is utilised even incorporating the musicians in view and this emphasises the storytelling.
The music was beautiful and incredibly emotive from start to finish. Allegiance has an exceptional cast behind it. Aynrand Ferrer who played Kei Kimura blew me away with her vocals especially in ‘Ishi Kara Ishi’ , ‘How Can You Go?’ and ‘Still A Chance’ which have stook with me since. Ferrer’s voice was beautiful, moving and transported me to an era gone by. Her performance of Kei’s character showed the audience the pressures and difficulties she faced now and in the past.
Telly Leung who played young Sammy Kimura was a joy to watch. He articulated the struggles his character had to face, the difficult decisions and where his loyalty lied powerfully. I particularly loved his vocals in ‘What Makes A Man’ and ‘How Far Can You Go?’.
George Takei who played Sammy when he was older portrayed a great performance that oozed reflection on time gone by. Takei went through an entire journey in this production, ending on the pain, loss and anguish he felt at his past. He also played Ojii-chan who was Sammy and Kei’s grandfather. It was admirable to see him execute the two roles. This is a testament to George's acting abilities . He demanded the stage and the audience in each role. You can see how much he loves being on stage and telling this story. The smile on his face at the end says it all !
The whole cast were talented and had great stage presence . A special mention goes to Sario Solomon who played Johnny Goto and Ben Masaoka. I found my eyes being drawn to him as he was enthusiastic, and his personality and passion shone through .
Allegiance is a masterpiece that needs to be seen to be believed. It opened my eyes up to a part of history I wasn't educated on, and I will be reading and watching more. The set design and costumes were authentic and added that extra layer to the story .
The entire thing was incredibly moving, there were many (including myself) who didn’t have a dry eye. There are great layers of humour , fantastic choreography, beautiful music both instrumental and vocals which makes this an epic journey of love, loss betrayal and hope.
Despite it being incredibly emotional it is uplifting and life affirming. It is a stark reminder all the horrors humans have done to each other, still do across the world. It demonstrates an emphasis of the importance of being kind to ourselves and others .
Allegiance is performing at Charing Cross theatre until 8th April. Book your tickets today.
*Disclaimer: AD | Gifted Tickets
