If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the awkward aftermath of a first date, spare a thought for Lucy, the heroine of Lovestuck, who opens the show quite literally wedged in a bathroom window. This new comedy musical at Stratford East, inspired by a viral meme and a true story, leans into its absurd premise with gleeful abandon, delivering a night of lighthearted, if occasionally lowbrow, entertainment.
Framed as a fairytale narrated with a wink and a nudge, Lovestuck doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is: a cheeky, cringeworthy romp through the perils of modern dating. Think Miranda meets Mamma Mia! with lashings of toilet humour – and yes, that’s both literal and figurative.
The book by James Cooper, co-creator of My Dad Wrote A Porno, is packed with gags that range from groan-worthy to genuinely giggle-inducing. While the plot is admittedly thinner than a dating app bio, it’s buoyed by a surprisingly strong score from Bryn Christopher and Martin Batchelar. The title number, a noughties-style boyband banger, is a particular highlight, and the ballads – especially “One in a Million” – add unexpected emotional depth.
Ambra Caserotti, who has stepped into the leading lady role at short notice following a cast injury, is a revelation. With powerhouse vocals and impeccable comic timing, she anchors the chaos with charm and confidence. Shane O’Riordan is equally engaging as Peter, bringing warmth and sincerity to a role that could easily have been overshadowed by the show’s sillier moments.
Bridgette Amofah impresses in dual roles, particularly as the inner voice of self-doubt, Miseraie – though the character feels more like a narrative necessity than a fully fleshed-out villain. Callum Connolly also shines in the ensemble, injecting energy into every scene.
Tom Rogers’ set design cleverly uses illuminated windows to shift scenes, and the production is peppered with visual gags that enhance the farcical tone. Jamie Morton’s direction keeps the pace brisk, though Chi-San Howard’s choreography occasionally veers into the overly cheesy – even for a show that revels in its own ridiculousness.
Ultimately, Lovestuck is a fizzy, feel-good musical that doesn’t aim for profundity but lands squarely in the realm of escapist fun. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those willing to embrace the silliness, it’s a charming reminder that love – much like a bathroom window – can be a tight squeeze.
