First Date
We all remember how we felt on a first date, nervous, excited, scared and slightly awkward. Well, this first date at the Old Joint Stock Theatre in Birmingham was nothing short of the perfect night of hilarity and with a cast who are a match made in heaven, it really did cement why Fringe theatre plays such an integral part in our theatrical journeys, where sometimes the biggest shows are shown in the smallest places.
From Director James Edge, Associate Director Emily Susanne Lloyd and Producer Liam Alexandru, ‘First Date’ is a musical comedy following two unlucky in love hopefuls Aaron (Michali Dantes) and Casey (Rokaya) who find themselves embarking on a blind date in the heart of New York City. The action takes place in ‘Cupidz’ and as soon as we entered the space, the waiter (played magnificently by Joey Warne) welcomes us into the restaurant setting, instilling an immersive feel to the whole show.
This small cast of 5 all work so hard for the duration of the show, each complementing the other, especially Man 1 (Tom Kiteley), Man 2/Waiter (Joey Warne) and Woman 1 (Lowri Hamer) who multi-role throughout offering up some truly inspired, funny and confident performances. They all worked as the thoughts of the two love hopefuls who navigate their way through a whole host of emotions as the night progresses, taking advice from their best friends, their ex-partners, and grandmother, amongst others. Each character change was aided by a prop bought onto stage via the waiter on a silver tray. This was an extremely clever way of switching up the story in a neat and tidy way.
Being so close to the action means that every dance move, every note sung, and every line delivered really does involve you in the story. The evening is a real journey emotionally with Aaron and Casey finding out about each other, involving a truly hilarious number about heading to Google to research your potential new partner. Choreographer Ellie Begley clearly understood the assignment and was able to provide some upbeat numbers, showcasing the talent she was working with.
The set, designed by Joanne Marshall transported us right into ‘Cupidz’, offering up an impressive skyline view of New York City (Tom McVeigh) and an aesthetically pleasing vibe. Sound design by Paul Finch made hearing dialogue easy with clear and crisp sounds which worked in harmony with the music, under the direction of Callum Thompson.
The story really did highlight the human pursuit of happiness, making us question who we are as people, and whether past traumas tarnish our future expectations of a relationship, or whether we can be happy as long as we find the right person. Dantes and Rokaya had wonderful chemistry, and you were absolutely willing them on to find love as the show reached its conclusion. Each and every member of the cast gave extremely memorable performances, and it was a pleasure to be back at the Old Joint Stock Theatre to witness another incredible show.
Venues like this really are working so hard to produce outstanding pieces of work, and its safe to say that ‘First Date’ is another huge success for the Old Joint Stock Theatre, so please go and support the show if you can. Congratulations to all involved!
This show was reviewed on the 9th August 2024 at the Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham where it runs until the 25th August 2024. Tickets available here: The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre Venue - Find out what's on at The Old Joint Stock Pub and Theatre in Birmingham
Review written by Emma Rowley
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Photo credit: Perro Loco Productions
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