The year is 1974 and Stephen Sondheim has just had great commercial success with A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, so what better way to celebrate than to write a musical based on an Ancient Greek comedy. The Southwark Playhouse dares again, after great success with ANYONE CAN WHISTLE, with another lesser known Sondheim musical, THE FROGS. Whilst waiting for the production to start the audience are treated to a frog themed playlist, including Kermit the Frog’s ‘It Ain’t Easy Being Green’ a nice touch.
We are introduced to our two protagonists straight away, Dionysus is played by the very capable Dan Buckley, whilst Xanthias is played by Glee’s very own Kevin McHale. McHale doesn’t disappoint with quick wit and timing, it helps of course that he has some of the best lines in the show, including ‘who knew they could do classical ballet’ as a group of over grown frogs dance and sing to their heart’s content. The cast are faultless and the ensemble show how versatile they can be, portraying balletic frogs, William Shakespeare and Greek Gods, all in one sitting.
THE FROGS a satirical musical that reimagines Aristophanes’ ancient comedy in a modern context. The story follows Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and drama, who, disheartened by the state of contemporary theatre, journeys to the underworld accompanied by his slave Xanthias. Their mission is to retrieve a playwright capable of revitalising the art form. So where do the frogs come into it? Dionysus is warned by his brother Heracles of the frogs and describes them as dangerous creatures who are terrified of change. Dionysus then meets the frogs on the River Styx, they pull him out of his boat and try to persuade him to become a carefree frog, when he seems to reject this idea they try to eat him. All of this happens alongside incredibly challenging vocals and Matt Nicholson’s joyous choreography, it is the highlight of the show. Which makes it a little sad that this is the only time we meet them.
Stephen Sondheim’s ThHE FROGS has echoes of his great work still yet to come, but there are some stand out numbers. Dan Buckley changes the tempo when he sings the love ballad ‘Ariadne’ and of course, the title song ‘The Frogs’ is original and full of surprises. Based mostly on Nathan Lane’s adaptation there have been some modern touches added to this production. Whilst setting off down the River Styx Dionysus and Xanthias make a video, with Dionysus begging for likes and more followers and later on when Dionysus is knocking on Pluto’s door we hear a Ringo doorbell.
THE FROGS seemingly has it all, a thought provoking narrative, a stellar cast and themes of artistic integrity. If it was condensed into 90 minutes it would be pure comedy gold. However it is a tad too lengthy! The second act being too heavy on the politics and taking far too long to make its point. The first act however, is pure fun and frolicking and we guarantee you’ve never seen anything quite like this.
*** Three Stars
Reviewed by Sophie Eaton
