I Screamed A Scream, Old Joint Stock Theatre Birmingham Review

Photo by Perro Loco Productions

Written by Roni for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review

---

Spooky season may have been and gone, but plenty of evil shenanigans are still going on at the Old Joint Stock in Birmingham, with their wickedly thrilling concert, I Screamed a Scream. Bringing together a quartet of talent with some impressive credits under their belt for a villainous cabaret show, no mere mortal can resist a helping of some of the most devilish delights the theatre world has to offer. Can this cast put a spell on us, or will we be left feeling like poor, unfortunate souls?

Hosted by and starring West End Best Friend’s James Edge, the show will have a short three-show run in Birmingham, before moving on to the Phoenix Arts Club in London and the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford. Taking us on a journey through the greatest anti-heroes from the world of theatre and film, we’re treated to the most dastardly tunes from Little Shop of Horrors, Into The Woods, Tangled, and even everyone’s favourite villain movie…. Lion King 2?

The show is sold out here in Brum even on the night after Halloween, and the audience are clearly brimming with antici…pation for the kooky spectacle awaiting them. Luckily, the crowd is not disappointed- this cast certainly knows how to deliver a real treat. Joining James are Hadyn Cox, Sinead Kenny and Lydia Eliza Roberts, a trio of West End performers providing some killer vocals for this incredible catalogue. Accompanied by the wonderful Callum Thompson on keys (and occasional entertaining backing vocals), all four bring their A-game to provide a thrilling show. Sinead stuns as Mother Gothel, Miss Baltimore Crabs and the criminally underrated villain Zira, amongst others, giving us poised and poisonous in spades. Hadyn Cox is performing some real vocal backflips as he runs through the likes of Heathers and Jesus Christ Superstar with both ease and a brooding, moody energy. Lydia has some of the smoothest vocals you could imagine, and she really does put them to the test, covering super bitches such as Regina George and Ursula the Sea Witch to perfection. James himself is a delectable master of ceremonies, and switching between impeccable performances and hilarious hosting is a breeze for him. He has the audience in stitches, as well as keeping the wheels greased. The group medley as the show’s opener is a particular highlight, as well as their encore (no spoilers!).

Frankly put, this is exactly what a cabaret should be. Crowd pleasing, pitch perfect and thrilling throughout, this one has definitely caught audiences in its death grip – and may it never let go.

 ★★★★★