Maiden Voyage at Southwark Playhouse Elephant Review
Written by Danai for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Maiden Voyage charts the courageous journey of Tracy Edwards and her all-female crew who defied the odds by entering the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race in 1989–90. From the very start, this new musical pulses with an energy and optimism that reflects the spirit of its real-life protagonists. Chelsea Halfpenny leads the cast as Tracy Edwards with a compelling blend of determination, vulnerability, and steely resolve. Her performance anchors the show and lends emotional depth to the story, drawing the viewer into the highs and lows of such a daunting challenge.
The supporting cast, including Naomi Alade as Jo and Laura Tyrer as Pat, enriches the production with genuine warmth and camaraderie. Their ensemble work captures the sense of sisterhood and shared ambition that is central to the narrative. The chemistry among the crew feels natural, and moments of humour and lightness break up the tension in just the right way.
Director Tara Overfield Wilkinson’s vision for the show is clear and effective. Working within the intimate confines of the Southwark Playhouse, the creative team utilises clever set pieces and choreography to evoke the vastness and unpredictability of the open sea. The sound design and lighting cleverly complement the mood shifts throughout the performance, from moments of exhilarating speed and competition to quieter, more introspective scenes.
Musically, Carmel Dean’s score supports the story’s emotional arc with melodic, optimistic tunes that underscore the crew’s resilience and hope. Some songs soar and linger in the memory, but others fall a bit flat, lacking the distinct hooks that would elevate them beyond pleasant background pieces. The musical flow is generally smooth, though the pacing occasionally dips with scenes that overstay their welcome or rush through moments that could use more emotional weight.
What stands out is the atmosphere in the theatre itself. It’s evident that the story resonates deeply—not only through the committed performances but also through the audience’s warm, enthusiastic response. The production balances the grit and hardship of this historic voyage with a hopeful, inspiring spirit that leaves viewers feeling uplifted.
While Maiden Voyage is not without its imperfections, it is a heartfelt and engaging new musical that deserves recognition for spotlighting a story of female empowerment and perseverance. With further refinement, this show could truly chart a course for greater success. There’s something powerful about telling true stories in a way that’s both fun and meaningful—and this show manages that.
Maiden Voyage plays at Southwark Playhouse Elephant until 23 August
★ ★ ★
