Standing at the Sky’s Edge Review – London Theatre

Standing at the Sky’s Edge Review

I was invited to see Standing at the Sky’s Edge at London’s Gillian Lynne Theatre. A multi-award winning new musical; winner of the Olivier Award for Best New Musical, UK Theatre Award for Best Musical Production and the South Bank Sky Arts Award. It has transferred to the West End following sold-out runs at the National Theatre and Sheffield Theatres.​ So here is my review of ‘Standing at the Sky’s Edge’:

Everything you need to know about Standing at the Sky’s Edge at Gillian Lynne Theatre – A review.

Through its engaging narrative, “Standing at the Sky’s Edge” explores the lives of ordinary people, that makes for a fascinating story. It is like a book you cannot put down, inducing both tears and laughter. Set on the Park Hill Housing estate we explore, the themes of community, love, loss and resilience, complemented by a wonderful soundtrack by Richard Hawley.

The Story

The story unfolds against the backdrop of Park Hill, an iconic housing estate in Sheffield. Originally built in the 1960s as council housing, it was deemed as revolutionary. Fast forward some 30 years later, after numerous problems with anti social behaviour and lack of maintenance it stood almost empty, before being redeveloped, inviting a new mix of occupants. It masterfully intertwines the lives of these people across different decades. Starting off in the 60’s, optimism of the inhabitants was high, we journey through the years and the challenges that Park Hill Estate endured.

The clever use of digital displays helps to differentiate between the families and eras, enhancing the audience’s understanding of the narrative.

The Characters & Set

The production strikes a delicate balance between being moving and charming, sprinkled with a delightful sense of humour. Its characters are both likable and relatable, drawing the audience deeper into their stories. This is indeed an incredibly strong cast that all deliver a brilliant performance throughout.

Visually, Standing at the Sky’s Edge is impressive. The set design, featuring a central flat layout against the backdrop of the imposing concrete blocks, is both effective and evocative. Whether it was a scene unfolding in the foreground or a subtle detail in the background, there was always something to grab your attention.

A standout moment had to be Lauren Redding’s rendition of ‘Open Up Your Door’ and all of the ensemble numbers were simply brilliant, spine tingling moments, combined with the expressive choreography, the performances were completely captivating.

The Music

Hawley’s compositions perfectly capture the emotions of the characters, immersing us in their world and making the experience truly unforgettable. This is a soundtrack I could listen to again and again.

The presence of the band onstage adds to the immersive experience, housed on a mezzanine level in the flats to the rear of the stage, it was so great to see them perform on stage alongside the cast.

My thoughts on the show

Standing at the Sky’s Edge” feels refreshingly current and modern, thanks to its innovative storytelling and seamless integration of multiple timelines. From the infectious music to the clever choreography and dramatic staging, every element contributes to the show’s overall brilliance. This is a heart warming story delivered by a hugely talented cast that is destined to entertain audiences time and time again. It’s a show that leaves a lasting impression and a show I could watch on repeat. I thoroughly urge you to go see it, you will not regret it!

Cast List: 

• JONATHAN ANDRE – MAX / WORKMAN 3
• MONIQUE ASHE-PALMER – SWING
• ELIZABETH AYODELE – JOY
• JONATHON BENTLEY = GARY / NIGEL / WORKMAN 1
• ADAM COLBECK-DUNN – ONSTAGE SWING
• VIQUICHELE CROSS – ONSTAGE SWING
• JAMIE DONCASTER – ONSTAGE SWING
• CAROLINE FITZGERALD – ONSTAGE SWING
• MYA FOX-SCOTT – JENNY
• JOEL HARPER-JACKSON – HARRY
• SHARLENE HECTOR – GRACE / ALICE
• SAMUEL JORDAN – JIMMY
• JEROME LINCOLN – ONSTAGE SWING
• MEL LOWE – CONNIE
• DAVID MCKECHNIE – JOE / WORKMAN 2
• SEAN MCLEVY – ONSTAGE SWING
• RACHAEL LOUISE MILLER – CATHY
• BAKER MUKASA – GEORGE
• ALASTAIR NATKIEL – MARCUS / HOUSING OFFICER
• LAURA PITT-PULFORD – POPPY
• ADAM PRICE – CHARLES / TREV / SEB
• LAURYN REDDING – NIKKI
• NICOLA SLOANE – VIVIENNE / KAREN
• LILLIE-PEARL WILDMAN – JUSTINE
• KAREN WILKINSON – ONSTAGE SWING
• RACHAEL WOODING – ROSE

Young Company

• ALAYNA ANDERSON – YOUNG CONNIE
• LUCA FOSTER-LEJEUNE – YOUNG JIMMY
• RENÉE HART – YOUNG CONNIE
• ERIC MADGWICK – YOUNG JIMMY
• CHIOMA NDUKA – YOUNG CONNIE
• SAM STOCKS – YOUNG JIMMY

Band

• ALEX BEETSCHEN – MUSICAL DIRECTOR / KEYS 1
• SAM HALL – ASSISTANT MUSICAL DIRECTOR/KEYS 2/GUITAR
• JON GINGELL – LEAD GUITARS
• PHIL DONNELLY – ELECTRIC & UPRIGHT BASS
• DARREN BECKETT – DRUM KIT & PERCUSSION
• TINA JACOBS-LIM – VIOLIN
• ROSIE TOMPSETT – VIOLIN / VIOLA
• GABRIELLA SWALLOW – CELLO

Venue:

Gillian Lynne Theatre, 166 Drury Lane, Holborn, London WC2B 5PW. Hotels nearby Gillian Lynne Theatre.

Running time:

2 hours 50 minutes, including an interval.

Warnings:

This show contains adult themes and strong language, including some scenes depicting physical violence, alcohol abuse and death. There are flashing lights, haze and loud sound effects, vaping, and the smoking of herbal cigarettes.

Age Guidance:

12+ at parental discretion.

Price:

TICKETS From £20.

For more information or to book tickets or to book a hotel nearby.

You may be interested in some of my other reviews: I should be So Lucky, Shrek The Musical or Calendar Girls.

We were invited for press night but all comments and opinions are strictly my own. Thank you for reading Standing at the Sky’s Edge Review.