By Michelle Rawlins
Following the huge success of the film, the charming characters of Madagascar are back for a UK stage tour.
For fans of New York Central Zoo menagerie, this fun-filled production won’t disappoint. The storyline stays true to the delightful 2005 Dreamworks animation, following favourites, Marty the Zebra, Alex the Lion, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo. They embark on an epic adventure, travelling from the safety of their home in the Big Apple, on a roller coaster journey, across land and sea to the far-off African island.
The plot makes for an entertaining couple of hours as the lovable and funny friends, navigate a turbulent train ride and choppy boat rides, before encountering a pack of wild animals as they land on Madagascar.
The big name for the UK tour is Karim Zeroual from CBBC, who plays King Julien, reenacting his highly hilarious side perfectly.
But each character is fabulous in their own right. Alex the Lion (Joseph Hewlett) makes for a loyal friend, Gloria (Jarneia Richard-Noel), is still as sassy, Marty (Francisco Gomes) is determined to find his homeland, and Joshua Oakes-Rogers perfectly replicates a cautious and nervous Melman.
The team of puppeteers were also excellent as they superbly brought the clever, and rather adorable, penguins to life.
One of the standout moments is definitely the whole cast rendition of I Like To Move It Move It, which was delivered with gusto, and met with raucous laughter from young and older members of the audience alike, as King Julien showed off his snazzy moves. This isn’t a one song show, though – throughout the visually effective choreography, under the tutelage of Fabian Aloise, is impressive.
The cleverly designed set, courtesy of Tom Rogers, is simple but effective, and adds extra elements of surprise as characters pop out from a range of secretly positioned created nooks and crannies. The costumes are impressive, effectively conveying the characters.
Director, Kirk Jameson, has certainly pulled off a captivating show, which is delightful, highly humorous and entertaining, but despite the high energy and close animal friendships, this isn’t on the same level as Lion King. Yes, it’s sweet but it doesn’t have the depth or impact of some of the more successful kids’ musicals. You don’t feel as connected to the characters, or as engrossed by the storyline, and it certainly doesn’t pull at your heart strings, but maybe that doesn’t matter.
And all that said, by the end of this charming show, the entire audience were on their feet dancing, creating a wonderful ending to this still rather enjoyable, family friendly show.
Madagascar The Musical is touring until August 2024
Tickets available here