Forbidden Broadway tickles London audiences

Forbidden Broadway tickles London audiences

29 July, 2009
by: Joe Harrod

Probably the hottest show outside the West End at the moment is a rare UK run for underground New York cult classic Forbidden Broadway, currently playing the magnificent Menier Chocolate Factory.

For the uninitiated, this is a show that lovingly sends up the hit shows of the day, from The Lion King to La Cage aux Folles, and takes no prisoners - targetting stars, celebrity cameos, silly lyrics and over-the-top set pieces. It's all done in the spirit of admiration though. Since its foundation in 1981 the show has consistently married a sharp wit with a fondness for the glam excesses of the big budget musical. Celebrity fans who've loved their own charicatures include Kathleen Turner, Carol Channing and Stephen Sondheim himself.

Now the show hits London with a specially adapted programme featuring the big hits of the West End. It's an astonishing show, employing only four actors who display virtuosity and versatility as they lampoon dozens of subjects inside a wonderful two hours. We tracked down Sophie Louise Dann for the briefest of chats about the show.

The show constantly evolves. You were in the Jermyn Street version last time – was it completely different?

Obviously a lot has happened in the theatre in ten years! New shows, existing shows, flops!  We have updated this version to be as current as possible - but the beauty of Forbidden Broadway is not only does it immortalize productions but some of the most iconic figures in theatre - one of my favourites is a young Julie Andrews commenting on the new show of Mary Poppins and, of course, the aging Annie!!
 
Forbidden Broadway is a four-handed show requiring fantastic timing, understanding and versatility. Does this kind of work scare you, or is it exciting?

Are you kidding?? this is the most fantastic opportunity to display every aspect of our vocal talent, comic timing and interaction with the audience. The show is a 90 minute blast that never stops. I speak for us all when I say we embrace and enjoy every second.
 
Have you been over to see the New York version?

Yes and loved it just as much from the other side of the footlights!
 
Do the cast have any input when creating a new bit?

Yes yes yes!  What is so exciting is what you can bring with a good impersonation, vocal trick or a piece of comic business. The process is very much organic from the page to the stage for each individual track.
 
Have you spotted any celebrities in the Chocolate Factory audience?

We have had the pleasure of meeting Elaine Paige, Maureen Lipman and Maria Friedman. A lot of the casts of West End shows come en masse to the Sunday matinee. It is a great feeling to have their support!!
 
Can you see yourself doing the show in years to come?

I'll do this show for as long as they'll have me!
 
Any other exciting projects that you are getting involved with?

I'm making my BBC PROMS debut - going back to my classical roots - in Gilbert and Sullivan's Patience at Royal Albert Hall on August 11th.  Just one night off from the quick change madness of FB!


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Joe Harrod