Following its previous sell-out run, I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical returns to the Edinburgh Fringe, playing until 28th August at Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose. Created by Alexander S. Bermange, directed and choreographed by Joanna Goodwin and featuring a cast of west-end regulars, this year’s production introduces new elements whilst retaining the qualities from the previous show.
All-singing, all-dancing, the show comedically covers the dramatic journey of musical theatre professionals as they attempt to make it in the industry. We follow the highs and lows of a performer’s career, from wide-eyed drama school graduate to successful star, irritating diva, past-it chorus member, or bitter has-been.
A musical isn’t complete without a colourful array of songs, and Alexander S. Bermange provides them in abundance. From powerful ballads to catchy choruses, the clever lyrics obviously resonate with the audience drawing many laughs and affectionate reactions.
I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical is splendidly delivered by a passionate, energetic cast. Luke Harley, Hannah Taylor, Harry Winchester and Alice Ellen Wright display admirable versatility, with clever comedic timing and ability to hit all the right (and sometimes wrong) notes. The chemistry between them combined with an obvious love for their industry creates an infectious warmth that radiates into the audience.
The beauty of this show is how appealing it is. Those experienced in theatre will most likely relate to the hilarious accounts of humiliating auditions and embarrassing mid-performance mishaps. For those who are simply curious, the show offers a glimpse into the day-to-day life of this mysterious career.
I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical reveals hidden truths of theatre life in a hilarious way. Yet underneath the comedy it’s brutally honest, at times hard-hitting, highlighting just how much these people go through to get to the stage. This production is one hour of enthralling entertainment that takes us through the rollercoaster lives of these people whose lives, quite literally, are a musical.
