Our Little Secret: The 23andMe Musical at the Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose is a delightful and thought-provoking production that captivates audiences with its blend of humour, heartfelt storytelling, and musical charm. Performed by Noam Tomaschoff, this one-man show takes viewers on a personal journey of discovery and identity, sparked by the surprising revelations of a DNA test.
The musical is based on Tomaschoff’s real-life experience of uncovering unexpected truths about his family through a 23andMe test (the North American equivalent of Ancestory). This intimate and often humorous narrative is brought to life with a script that is both witty and poignant.
Tomaschoff’s performance is full of energy, as he skilfully navigates the complex emotions of his story, allowing the audience to feel the weight of his discoveries while also finding moments of levity and joy. His ability to convey deep emotions through expressive storytelling and vivid descriptions makes the experience feel immersive, despite the minimalistic staging. At the performance I attended, three audience members had to be ejected for inappropriate behaviour, yet Tomaschoff didn’t lose stride and continued to deliver an exceptional performance.
The music, composed by Ryan Peters, complements the narrative beautifully. There’s a lovely mix of musical styles which effectively set the tone for each scene, enhancing the emotional depth of the performance.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Our Little Secret: The 23andMe Musical is its ability to balance comedy with serious themes of identity and family. Tomaschoff’s script is peppered with clever lyrics and humorous anecdotes, ensuring that the audience is both entertained and moved. The show’s structure allows for a seamless transition between laughter and introspection, making it a well-rounded theatrical experience.
Our Little Secret: The 23andMe Musical tackles an unusual and potentially sensitive subject, yet it’s incredibly inspiring and full of heart, driven by a compelling narrative and a charismatic performance by Noam Tomaschoff. This production not only entertains but also invites audiences to reflect on their own family dynamics and the surprises that life can bring.
