The Parent Agency

The script itself is relatively predictable, culminating in a sweet, endearing message about a ‘perfect family’ and much of the comedy centres around clunky stereotypes and schoolboy humour. Nonetheless, this show does what it says on the tin and is a fun-filled world premiere of a family musical that will have the kids and adults laughing.

This stage adaptation has renowned names leading the creative team. The music has been composed by Dan Gillespie Sells (known in the industry for also composing the music for Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) with lyrics by David Baddiel and adds to the story with catchy, upbeat musical numbers including the opening song ‘Barry’, offset with more poignant numbers such as ‘Just As You Are’. Under the direction of Tim Jackson, Barry’s tale come to life, as we move between the different settings and parental character choices. 

Jon Bausor’s minimalistic, yet effective set design brings luminosity and bursts of colour to the stage in an almost cartoon-like design which replicates some of the original illustration of the book and adds to the idea that the majority of this story is set in a fantasy world. Choreography by Carrie-Ann Ingrouille is cleverly used to personify each set of possible parents, bringing a variety of dance styles and comedy, and is executed to a high standard by the well-rehearsed cast.