The Flood: A Musical by AKA Theatre Company Ltd Review
Written by Joseph for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
I am always looking for new musical theatre. I think it is something that always needs writing, as otherwise we just get the same things regurgitated over and over. The Flood is a breath of fresh air into the world of musical theatre. Telling the story of the Hebden Bridge flood on Boxing Day 2015, it is a love letter to the north and what communities can achieve when disaster strikes.
Performed by 5 very talented actor musicians, the music integrated well into the story, including a few percussive pieces that made use of the space itself to create the music. Some numbers were stronger than others, but all were enjoyable, in particular a solo from Ayana Beatrice Poblete was well arranged and very well performed and was especially moving.
Katherine Toy was the spiritual centre of the musical, whose northern charm and wit gave echoes of Sophie Willan and added great humour to a dire situation. Jon Bonner also did this whilst looking for his dear cat, and had a wonderful moment when help came from an unexpected place. This scene was dealt with so beautifully, it could easily have come across as trite, but it was handled perfectly and helped embolden the heart of the piece.
Mark Emmons and Samantha Richards rounded out the cast, playing multiple roles and doing well in all of them, fleshing out this Yorkshire town to feel even more like a real community of people.
The staging was very well put together with multiple pieces coming together, or apart to create new spaces, with a beautiful use of fabric as water. Small lights that represented the homes of Hebden Bridge were a lovely touch and helped frame the stage well, even though some were a little sporadic when they wanted to work, it didn’t spoil the enjoyment.
My main concern was during some songs, as they were not mic’ed up, I found it hard to hear what some characters were saying over the music, which could be something to look at in future, as the words were beautiful, so it’s a shame if I can’t hear them. It solidified my belief that all musicals should have an accordion. It adds a lovely tone that complements the folksy nature of the show. I also appreciated that there was a BSL interpreter, as the theatre should be accessible to all.
Overall, it was a lovely piece that I felt bridged the space between mournful and hopeful. Showcasing human kindness and what communities can do when they pull together.
“The universe will provide”
At Leeds Playhouse until 15 May 2025
★★★★
