What’s it all about?
New Yorker Sara, played by former Wicked and We Will Rock You star Kerry Ellis, is caught in a love triangle. Torn between her free-spirited past Downtown and her new family life Uptown, Sara must choose between her brooding but dangerous ex-boyfriend and her dependably steady husband.
Murder Ballad a sharp tale of love and lust with bloody consequences for one of its stars. Examining modern relationships, life in the city and the pursuit of a domestic ideal, Murder Ballad is a new musical with plenty to say.
Who’s in it?
Alongside Kerry Ellis is Ramin Karimloo, Victoria Hamilton-Barritt and Norman Bowman – a who’s who of musical theatre greats. Victoria dazzles as our narrator, masterfully guiding the audience through the evening’s events with a devilish charm
What should I look out for?
The set is sparse, which allows for a rapid change of pace as we go from Downtown dives to Uptown domesticity with an occasional reveal of the onstage band making this part chamber musical, part rock concert. The music and lyrics by Juliana Nash are pointed and arch, delivered with gusto by this all-star cast.
What’s being said on Twitter?
#MurderBallad @ArtsTheatreLDN rocked! Great cast, great score. Congrats to all ������
— Melanie Masson (@MelanieMasson1) October 6, 2016
Congratulations @murderballadldn @JDWood85 on a fantastic opening night! Go and see this masterclass in musical theatre @ArtsTheatreLDN x pic.twitter.com/Kt3ejMuvGi
— Adele Keating (@Adelelk) October 5, 2016
In a nutshell?
This new musical packs a punch with a dark score and killer performances.
Murder Ballad plays at the Arts Theatre until 3 December. Please visit the venue’s website for further information.