AD | tickets gifted in exchange of an honest review
The world premiere of The Parent Agency has come to Chester’s Storyhouse. Based on the book written by David Baddiel. It follows 10 year old Barry, who doesn’t like his parents, and wishes he has new ones. His wishes take him to an alternate universe where you choose who your parents are - but is it all it’s cut out to be?
Both the young and adult cast members are brilliant and bring the show together fantastically, all bring bundles of energy which brings the show to life.
The young cast is made up of Max Bispham, Osian Salter, Eli Sowden-Mehta and Louis Wilkins, with Max Bispham leading the cast for this performance as Barry. Rebecca McKinnis and Rakesh Boury play Barry’s parents (Sue and Geoff)/dream parents, with both play into their roles fabulously, and perfecting each type of parent that Barry wants/ has.
Rebecca McKinnis successfully brings a wide range of emotions as all the parents, making some of the scenes entertaining, gripping the audience into wanting more of the parents. Other highlights within the cast includes Kazmin Borrer, who plays Kay - one of Barry’s sisters- alongside roles in the ensemble, and a member of the Parent Agency, as well as Elliot Broadfoot, who brings perfectly executed comedic timing as Peevish. Finally, Barry’s friends, who are played by Joshian Angelo Omana, Dylan Collymore and Sarah McFarlane, are all stand outs with interactions with all members of the cast, also playing PCs (Parent Controllers) in the alternate universe, alongside a handful of different ensemble characters.
On top of this, the music for this production has amazing quality. Written by Dan Gillespie Sells, there is the perfect balance between high energy numbers, slower ballads and everything in between. Everything created by Gillespie Sells
complements scenes amazingly, and there is the perfect balance between musical numbers and dialogue throughout the show. The balance keeps the show pacey and entertaining for all ages, even younger audience members who might be watching a musical for the first time. Choreography by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille fits perfectly alongside the music, creating energy when there needs to be, and calmer moments at exactly the right times.
Another highlight was the brilliance of the set, and all of the props involved within the production. Whilst the stage initially seems small throughout the first scene, the stage and set design expands into full view during the second scene, and stays within its full capacity until the end of the show. Designed by Jon Bausor, and lighting by Zoe Spurr, the shows design and lighting presents each family and scene within its own unique way, with the Parent Agency itself being presented within its own rights. Bausor's set design is fabulous, with great details which highlight a real family home, as well as what a young boy would want in his room with his different obsessions. Costumes also played a key role within the show, as some props tied in with the costumes, such as the hoverboards and tablets, designed by Sarah Mercadé, and were the ideal reflection of each character.
Overall, The Parent Agency has plenty of highlights, Tim Jackson's direction has helped turn the book into a high energy musical for the whole family, plus theatre goers who want to go with friends or on their own. Jackson has managed to take Baddiel’s book and translate it into a very nice night out.
★★★★
The Parent Agency is running at Storyhouse Chester until March 2nd,.
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