The decision by young production company, Three Barks and a Bite to bring an off-Broadway musical to a small pub theatre in Camden may seem like a gamble but it’s one that has largely paid off, thanks to the talent of its versatile cast and crew.
Little by Little is at once a very contemporary tale of the love triangle that emerges in the changing lives of three childhood friends with the accompanying laughs and tears all set to a classic musical soundtrack. Think Friends meets Lloyd-Webber! The three cast members have to be commended by the way they maintain immaculate American accents throughout the constantly sung dialogue.
Guido Garcia puts in a striking performance as the Man at the centre of the love triangle and seems to own the stage whenever he appears whether as his brash, self-obsessed younger or more assured, perceptive older self.
Susannah Gidley is well cast as Woman 1, the immaculately turned out go-getter, who learns the hard way that things don’t always work out the way we plan once we reach adulthood.
However, Charlotte Shaw emerges as the star as Woman 2, the quiet, studious sensible one whose long-held secret has the power to transform the trio’s friendship forever when finally revealed. Shaw, in particular, displays a remarkably powerful singing voice which is put to great effect to display her emotional turmoil.
All three cast members put their all into the songs and their voices work well in harmony while still displaying the feelings of their different characters. They also handle the many exuberant dance routines and actions well. If there is a flaw to this production of Little by Little it is that those dance routines seem to require a bigger stage and a more set back audience for them to be appreciated properly but choreographer, Becky Harrison has to be credited for the skill involved in bringing them to The Etcetera Theatre’s confined, intimate space.
A lot of effort has also obviously gone into costume design, which change as the characters change as time goes on. Note Woman 2’s transition from preppy, lovelorn bookworm in florals and glasses to leather jacketed, flowing haired feisty individual by the conclusion of the piece. The actors change on stage as the action continues which is a little off putting but seems to sit with the theme of the show.
The contribution of Musical Director, Samuel Wilson plays a huge part in the success of the show. The keyboard playing is faultless whether accompanying a heart-felt soliloquy or a rousing celebration of friendship.
Little by Little will not win any prizes for originality. The theme of friendships changing and growing is beloved of many art forms. However, the heartwarming ending will still have you leaving the theatre uplifted.
