REVIEW: Miss Saigon at Birmingham Hippodrome
It is rare to come across a production that makes you feel every emotion possible within the allocated 2 hours and 45 minutes, but Miss Saigon manages to do just that, and then some. The show is currently on stage at Birmingham Hippodrome and if there is one thing you do with the remainder of your summer, see this show.
Miss Saigon follows the epic love story of young bar girl Kim, who has been orphaned by war. Kim falls madly in love with American GI Chris during the Vietnam War. However, their tale turns to tragedy and their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon. The show has been gracing stages for more than 25 years, but Cameron Mackintosh’s take on Boublil and Schönberg’s Miss Saigon keeps it fresh and feels brand new. After all, heartbreak never goes out of fashion.
Sooha Kim, who takes on the role of Kim in the production, is incredible. From her beautiful vocals to her ability to reduce the audience to tears with her very believable heart ache, it is no wonder why she is the true star of the show. Ashley Gilmour’s take on the role of Chris was also mesmerising, and even with parts of the storyline going against Chris, with his charisma and charm, it was hard to dislike him.
Other cast highlights came in the form of Red Conception, who takes on role of The Engineer. The character was infectiously hilarious, yet portrayed the not-so-evil villain incredibly well. Zoe Doano’s take on the role of honest and naïve Ellen is also a pleasure to watch, as was Na-Young Jeon’s role of the naughty but nice Gigi.
It is the musical numbers that make the production as special as it is. Musical highlights included the stunning The Movie In My Mind, Why God Why? And the incredible The American Dream, which was the most flamboyant song I have ever seen performed on the stage of the Hippodrome. The ensemble for musical numbers was also flawless, especially during The Morning Of The Dragon scene.
However, the set of Miss Saigon, takes it from very good to brilliant. The set changes were smooth and quick, and the design of the stage was simply beautiful, from the opening set of Dreamland right through to the sparkling lights of Bangkok. The production also features a helicopter, that completely shocked the audience and really made the show.
Miss Saigon is an absolute treat for the eyes, ears and heart. The production and cast are outstanding and there really is nothing that the show lacks in. The storyline is captivating and is set to pull on your heart strings, if you like it or not. The show is unmissable and is well worth heading along to.
Thankfully, the production is on stage at the theatre for another five weeks until Saturday, September 23.
Miss Saigon rating: 10/10
