Birmingham Hippodrome's production of Sylvia the Musical, starring Beverley Knight, delivers a powerful performance but struggles with pacing, according to reviewer Olivia Fox. The show, which runs until October 10, presents a wordy first half and a vibrant second, leaving audiences with a split experience.
A Tale of Two Halves
Fox, writing for Brum Daily, described the experience as "watching two different shows." The first half was heavy with dialogue and information, at times hard to follow, with songs that blended together. The monochromatic costume and staging added to a sense of something being off during the interval.
Highlights in the first half included Winston Churchill quips, a women's biology slide, and the final song before the interval, which lifted the mood. However, the second half brought a dramatic shift, filled with colour and energy, featuring some of the best songs in the show.
Star Performances Shine
The production, which follows Sylvia Pankhurst, daughter of suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst, showcases exceptional talent. Beverley Knight, known for Sister Act and Memphis the Musical, delivers powerhouse vocals that "bring the house down," according to Fox. Naomi Katiyo, playing the rebellious Sylvia, impressed with a smooth voice that slid across the scale and added depth to every song.
Fox praised the choreography as seamless and well thought-out, noting that every performer on stage was impressive. The show's second half earned Knight a supporting actress Olivier award for her role, cementing its quality.
An Educational Experience
Despite the pacing issues, Fox described the show as "an education I desperately needed," acknowledging that theatre that inspires examination of its themes is doing the right thing. The musical explores Sylvia's strained relationship with her mother and her departure when Emmeline's actions become too extreme, leaving working-class women behind in the fight for women's votes.
Fox compared the show's wordy pace to Hamilton, noting that it took her two views to appreciate that musical. She suggested a second viewing of Sylvia might allow the lyrics to sink in and grow on the audience. For those who enjoyed Hamilton from the start, this musical comes highly recommended for its talented performers.
Sylvia the Musical continues at the Birmingham Hippodrome until October 10.
