It is always exciting to see new musical work and Imperial Productions and The Eastman Group’s  world premiere of The Last Maharajah was no exception.  The show was performed at Hoxton Hall, an ideal venue with its intimate auditorium that allowed the drama to literally spill out into the audience.

The Last Maharajah tells the story of a 19th century romance between Dalip Singh, the last Maharajah of the Punjab, and Kitty Vaughan, a cockney music-hall soubrette.  The book of the show was well constructed and the story easily unfolded.  The music was rich, engaging and beautifully played by the talented Musical Director Leo Nicholson on grand piano.  There was a good mix of company numbers and solos which showcased many of the characters in this large cast of 24.

This production benefited from a strong cast of performers with David Phipps-Davis leading the production as both Director and stepping into the role of the Maharajah at the last minute.  Dave’s strong and rich voice was well suited to this demanding role and he commanded the stage portraying Dalip’s arrogance and obsession in regaining his Indian throne and Kohinoor diamond at all costs.

Annabel Bates as Kitty looked the part of the leading lady and was particularly strong in the company numbers.  Annabel could have brought more warmth to the character to allow the audience to feel a greater connection and compassion with the character and her plight but overall a convincing performance.

Carl Knighton as the Fenian in exile Patrick Casey was engaging with an Irish charm.  His character developed strongly throughout the show and he raised the quality of scenes when interacting with other characters.

The supporting cast were enthusiastic and well rehearsed.  Some stand out performances were Nicola Hornett who was a sweet Pol with a lovely voice, Irene Bradshaw as the landlady Molly Power showed great grit, Robert Pearce as Will brought great warmth and empathy to the role and Stephanie Frances O’Brien played the Maharani with the perfect blend of humility and inner strength. Rory McCallum and Harry Neale brought some humour to the show as the comic detectives.

Eirian Walsh Atkins did an excellent job with the costume design which really brought the production to life.  The Indian costumes were especially beautiful.  And well done to Jenny Perry for the excellent choreography which made use of the talents of the cast and was in keeping with the story.

Overall the cast and production team should be very proud in bringing such a well performed piece of new writing to the stage. 

A thoroughly enjoyable evening !

- Karen Jemison