Nearlyweds, theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall Review
Written by Jacqueline for Theatre and Tonic
Nearlyweds is a 50 minute musical telling the story of Lily, a young bride who flees her wedding day and escapes to London on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way she makes new friends, changes career and maybe even has a second shot at love?
Like many Fringe productions, Nearlyweds has a simple set but skilfully uses props to set the scene, allowing the quick-paced production to flow clearly. Jasmine Alice’s score is refreshing and modern, with an enjoyable balance of uptempo numbers and slower ballads. The cast perform these impeccably, paying no mind to the mic issues going on during the performance I witnessed- a testament to the professionalism of the team.
Though some would market Nearlyweds as a romcom, the true heart of the show lies in the sisterhood between Lily and Gail. As the story unfolds, the two women develop a heartfelt friendship in which they bring out the best in each other- without the show becoming too sickly-sweet. The chemistry between the two performers is impeccable and I wouldn’t be surprised if they were just as close offstage as they are onstage.
My only critique of Nearlyweds is that I would like to see it as a fuller production- potentially as a 90-minute one-act show, or a full length two-act production. Though Lily and Gail’s relationship is beautifully well developed, the romantic relationships between Lily and Jake, then Gail and Brian, are slightly underdeveloped by comparison- something that would absolutely be rectified in a longer production. Lily and Jake being on the same flight to London and having a small interaction was a nice touch, and in a longer show there could be more opportunities to build up that relationship.
Nearlyweds is a charming and delightful show with a huge amount of heart. It is an absolute must-see for anyone who loves a rom com and wants to support new writing.
Nearlyweds runs from 12:45-13:35 daily until August 23rd at theSpace @ Surgeons' Hall
★ ★ ★ ★
