Review: Reel to Real, Pleasance Grand

Published on Saturday 7 August 2010 11:16

Reel to Real ***** Pleasance Grand

To borrow a term from Glee, Reel To Real is a bit of a "mash up". Take "that" Gene Kelly car advert, throw in a dash of Wacky Races and shake it all up with a compilation of songs that could be given the monicker Now That's What I Call Broadway Hits, and you've got a Fringe sensation.

Reel to Real is a well-oiled entertainment machine, infused with energy, pizzazz and dazzlingly white teeth.

With a budget and production values that most other casts would barter their first-born children for, there is a constant stream of inventive technological wizardry to wow the audience and make them coo with nostalgia.

Tying it all up with a nice big red ribbon is a charming script and a talented, versatile leading cast.

Reel to Real tells the story of twins Jack and Jill, the children of wealthy movie mogul Archibald Cheever. Each must embark on a race around the globe to become their father's successor.

One sets off from London, the other Paris, solving clues along the way which take them to Hollywood, Hong Kong and their final destination, The Great Wall of China.

Leading man Jeremy Benton, who plays Jack, doubles as the production's tap choreographer and has created a confident set of routines. He also received a spontaneous round of applause from the audience for his duet with Gene Kelly in Singin' In The Rain.

His co-star Ellen Zolezzi, who plays sister and nemesis Jill, takes the greatest personal journey, even if it does seem like the emotional equivalent of a short saunter to the end of the block and back.

The ensemble's Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair, led by Zolezzi, is an absolute delight.

Where this production really excels is in its audience interaction. There are two moments - during a glorious snowstorm as flakes tumble from the ceiling, and with the addition of some beach balls in the finale - that the show's potential is fully realised.

With arguably the most complicated stage cues of any production at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this year, this is a slick, polished piece of entertainment that is guaranteed to enchant musical theatre and silver screen fans alike.

To achieve this quality of show in a Fringe venue is nothing short of stunning. One can only wonder what Reel To Real is capable of in a large theatre for an extended run.

Run ends 30 August