Webb is an astonishing performer: utterly convincing, heartbreakingly touching, and combining the voice of an angel with the physicality of a gargoyle
The first half plays out like Carry On Notre Dame, with pantomime villains, camp priests and saucy gypsies. Ripples of awkward laughter pass through the audience, but no-one, including the cast, seems to be sure if they are laughing with the production or at it. The piece improves markedly after the interval, however, solely due to the increased focus on Quasimodo himself, outstandingly portrayed by Steven Webb. Webb is an astonishing performer: utterly convincing, heartbreakingly touching, and combining the voice of an angel with the physicality of a gargoyle. His Quasimodo is entirely loveable, and the interplay between him and Esmerelda (Zoe George) on Introducing You is the highlight of the piece. For any student of drama or musical theatre, it is worth going to see Quasimodo for Webb’s masterclass of a performance alone.
** (2 stars)
Runs until April 13th
More info
Be the first to comment