The Story of My Life
With the biggest theatres in London holding over 2000 people, where you as an audience member might be forgiven for thinking you are just a commodity, the small houses have to fight for attention. Indeed, we struggled to find the Stage Door Theatre but in the end we were glad we did and believe it’s worth all the attention it can get. Performed above a pub at 150 Drury Lane, London, is the UK premier of the Broadway Musical The Story of My Life. It’s taken 15 years for this musical to make it to the UK. If you go to see it you’ll realise it was worth the wait.
As we enter the room, we see people gathered, some have taken advantage of the pre-show dinner package, some are just waiting in eager anticipation. We’re all sat at tables which makes for friendly interaction. The set appears simple: bookcases, a table and chair, a lectern, all painted white. On the shelves are numerous white books all waiting to be opened to reveal the secrets of their stories.
The story opens with Thomas (played by Markus Sondergren) preparing to speak at his friend Alvin’s (Tim Edwards) funeral. Thomas is a writer, but the words he is looking for appear to be avoiding him. Alvin appears: “write what you know” he insists and then he begins to take them through the stories of their life. From being matched as buddies by a caring school teacher to the times when life got more complicated.
For the next 85 minutes we are blessed with an insight into the two boys’ lives. The stories reveal, how they grew up together and how, as Thomas searched for inspiration for his writing career he pushed away all those who loved him – including his best friend. Meanwhile, Alvin is left in the small town where they grew up managing the family bookshop: The Writer’s Block, on behalf of his very sick father.
This is a truly beautiful piece of theatre, full of heart and pathos. It mirrors how all too often we fail to see the great stories within our lives, and in our striving hurt not only others but also ourselves. The set although simple is truly effective, the direction uses the stage and the room well and both actors give everything to the telling of the story – which demands much, both vocally and in their acting. Sound and lighting are good and complement the music. This is a well-balanced production all round.
This well-produced piece of intimate theatre is wonderfully performed. It’s the type of show that gets you thinking. Indeed, without any morbidity you leave determined to be a better person with a commitment to live life to the full. Would we recommend it to a friend? Certainly! Forget the hype of the big houses – see this!
This show was reviewed on the 13th September 2024 at the Stage Door Theatre, London where it runs until 19th October 2024. Tickets available here: Home | Stage Door Theatre
Review written by Paul Wood & Ian Worsfold
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Photo credit: Peter Davies
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