REVIEW | Musicals by Candlelight

Musicals by Candlelight. Photo by Danny Kaan. 

Written by Annie

Disclaimer: gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

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We were invited to TodayTix’s first ever ‘for the fans’ night. A night where their top fans and users of the year were invited to a special performance of Musicals by Candlelight at The Actor’s Church. Musicals by Candlelight is a new style of candlelit orchestral concerts which have become a firm favourite in London over the past couple of years. Beautifully romantic and cosy settings, these concerts transport you away from the hustle and bustle of the city, into a cocoon of stringed symphonies.

Played by The Icon Strings Quartet, the audience was treated to a variety of musical classics, from Sondheim to Kander and Ebb. The set list had a wonderful mix of timeless classics and contemporary favourites - making it a performance that would bring joy to anyone of any age. The performance is only an hour long, and it flies by so quickly, that you are left on the euphoric high of the evening wishing for more. Standout songs were “One Hand, One Heart” from West Side Story, and Funny Girl’s “Don’t Rain on My Parade”.

I would’ve perhaps preferred a bit more of a selection of songs on offer, as it did stick to very mainstream songs, and shows - but as it is only an hour long, it does have to ensure there is something for everyone which it definitely has done.

The Icon Strings Quartet is a group of internationally celebrated musicians, and they play with such mastery, as well as playfulness - truly bringing the music to life. I particularly loved that the musicians introduced each song before playing - giving the audience further insight into why each song had been chosen, as well as the meaning of the song.

I’ve always loved orchestral music, but sometimes it’s very easy for it to be categorised as “background” music and not celebrated as much as it should be, so I think what these candlelight concerts are doing is incredibly important. It’s enabling orchestral music of all genres to perform in popular circles and bringing in new audiences. I always love listening to the overture of a musical, as you really get to hear and understand the composer's intent for a show and celebrate the orchestra at a show, who are often hidden from the audience's sight. These concerts are putting the music and musicians front and centre and gaining praise for their talent, both as musicians and for the complexity of the music they play.

It is no secret that TodayTix hugely celebrates its fans, and their fan night is a testament to this wholly. They continue to have wonderful offers on for fans and newcomers to the theatre scene. Their rush ticket offers are such a great promotion and enable audiences to go to shows at affordable prices in great seats. Everyone is aware of the rocketing ticket prices, so it is reassuring to see ticket sellers like TodayTix create so many incentives to ensure the theatre is accessible to everyone.

If you’re able to catch Musicals at Candlelight I can assure you are in for a treat. However, their next concert Christmas at Candlelight has just gone on sale via TodayTix, and I am hoping to get to see that - as I can just imagine it will be the warmest, festive night out in London.

★ ★ ★ ★