Dodie Smith's novel
The Hundred and One Dalmatians has been a staple for many a child's upbringing ever since it was first published back in 1956. Perhaps Disney's 1961 film
101 Dalmatians went the way of bringing the tale of Perdi and Pongo's adventure into even more family homes and here this musical adaptation brings the show to a new, highly appreciative audience, currently playing at Milton Keynes Theatre.
For those unfamiliar with the tail, 101 Dalmatians tells the tale of a burgeoning relationship between Tom and Danielle, owners of dalmatians Pongo and Perdi, their puppies, and the devilish actions of a certain Cruella De Vil, interested in more than the work of fashion designer Tom.
First staged at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre in 2022, this re-imagined touring version from director Bill Buckfast has taken the show on a UK tour since June and perhaps adds more of a touch of pantomime style to the production. Adapted by Johnny McKnight, with music and lyrics by Douglas Hodge, this is a perfect little show for all the family.
The excellent cast play their roles broadly, with over-the-top performances throughout, which thrill the children in the audience at all times but do take the edge away from a more traditional musical show.
Leading the cast and most familiar to many is Kym Marsh as Cruella De Vil, who chews the scenery whenever on stage and performs her own solo numbers expectedly well. Unlike often the way with star casting, this one fits well and she is good in the role holding her own and scaring, or later in the show, providing immense amusement for the audience.
Many of the stars of the show are of course the dogs and a superb cast of puppeteers create both their movement and performances, with Linford Johnson and Emma Thornett excellent as Pongo and Perdi. Thornett's Perdi all bold and brave against the threat of Cruella and Johnson's Pongo is much more sweetly cautious but grows in strength and bravery as the threat to his family builds. Thornett is also superb as the clever and mischievous cat who helps the puppies later in the show.
Cruella's henchmen Casper and Jasper, played by Charles Brunton and Danny Hendrix respectively, are an excellent and incredibly entertaining double-act, providing the best entertainment whenever on stage. Elsewhere Jessie Elland as Danielle and Samuel Thomas as Tom, the loving couple and Perdi and Pongo's "pets" bring an extremely extravagant playing of their characters aimed very much at the entertainment of the children present.
The set from David Woodhead is excellent, providing an easy change of scenes and neat little tricks throughout the story to emphasise the growing number of puppies. The musical numbers, excellently performed by the cast are often catchy, and if not, entertaining and Leigh Stanford Thompson's small but excellent band fills the theatre with quality music.
101 Dalmatians is brilliant entertainment for all the family, with its vivid colouring and bold characterisation making the kids love it and the puppets provide the perfect added bonus. A cracking show and well worth a visit, either at Milton Keynes Theatre or its extensive tour into the new year.
Thrilling and highly entertaining musical of a classic family novel.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance reviewed: Tuesday, October 2024 at the Milton Keynes Theatre.
Production photos: Johan Persson
