Sunny Afternoon, written and composed by Ray Davies and directed by Edward Hall, tells the story of the Davies brothers and “The Kinks,” a sensational rock band that emerged in Britain during the vibrant 1960s.
The musical narrates the story from Ray Davies’s perspective, the lead singer and the songwriter behind the music, lyrics, and original story. It presents the true story of The Kinks and how four young boys from London’s outskirts rose to become a famous part of rock history. The show details their upbringing and downfalls as a group.
Sunny Afternoon features a large skilled cast, lively music, and a dynamic set design. Its rapid scene changes and frequent set alterations create an energetic pace, though at times this may lead to a sense of confusion or haste. The production team works extremely hard to allocate the design and accommodate the show’s demanding needs. With many actors playing multiple roles and managing frequent transitions, the show demonstrates impressive efficiency and commitment.
At the beginning of the show, I noticed a lack of energy, leaving me somewhat underwhelmed. It was surprising to see the band sign with four different managers so quickly, which made the plot feel rushed and lacking in detail. The focus was primarily on the music itself to drive the storyline, rather than investing more in the pivotal moments that would truly justify the musical numbers.
Additionally, several sound issues impacted the experience. While I understand the importance of volume in conveying the intensity of the storytelling, I found it challenging to hear the actors’ lyrics clearly. The powerful instrumentals often overshadowed the vocals, making it difficult to grasp the lyrics and fully appreciate the performances. With more attention to these elements, the show could create a more immersive and engaging experience for the audience.
There is an essential need for nostalgia, and I say this as a 21st-century baby. There is something transformative and raw about taking us back to the 1960s. The costume and set design by Miriam Buether really immerses us in the colourful, vibrant atmosphere of that era.
The show is constructed effectively, with a clear and engaging plot. However, it felt rushed at times. For example, in the first act, Rasa (played by Lisa Wright) tells Ray (Danny Horn) that she’s pregnant or mentions a miscarriage, but I’m not entirely sure what was said. It happened so quickly, and this pivotal moment in the story felt like it was missed.
This could easily be fixed without requiring any changes to the dramaturgy; perhaps more space could be given to the action, rather than rushing through it until the next song begins.
Sunny Afternoon offers a worthwhile experience for fans of rock music, particularly for those who appreciate the Kinks. It delivers solid performances and a nostalgic look at the band’s history. Just remember to bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to volume, and you’ll likely enjoy a relaxed evening celebrating some classic tunes.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
