AD-Gifted
Identical, a new musical inspired by The Parent Trap, is creating double the fun at The Lowry in Salford.
I am a twin. My sister means the world to me. We did everything together as children, even dressed the same (thanks mum!) We might not have been identical, but we were very much joined at the hip until we became adults.
So, of course a musical all about twins was super exciting to us!
Don’t forget to read my review of Sister Act – about a whole different type of sister!
And so they became a duo
You might be familiar with the Lindsey Lohan film. Absolute classic 90s flick in my eyes. But this show is actually inspired by the book, set in the 1950s across Vienna and Munich. I didn’t know it was a novel first either!
Identical twins, Lisa and Lottie were separated at birth and split between their parents. It isn’t until they are sent to the same summer camp that they accidentally meet. After some simple detective work, they realise they are a sisterly duo! Quickly a mischievous plan is born to swap lives. And it works!
After a joyous time getting to know their parents, soon a spanner is thrown in the works as their father is engaged to be married to a ‘witch’. This sets their plan on a whole new path.
It must have been one mighty challenge to find talented identical twins but somehow, they have managed it. You really can’t tell Kyla and Nicole Fox apart, and they lead this musical with such confidence and skill. Their sisterly love and connection had me emotional multiple times.
A new musical score
My biggest worry with any new musical is the soundtrack. I’m pleased to say, most of the songs are fun and catchy. ‘You’re my sister’ and ‘If I became you’ are youthful and playful numbers for the leading girls.
‘Take one or the other’ is a particular stand out from Gabrielle Lewis-Dodson who plays the ‘witch’ aka. Fiancé. It’s equally belty and eerie, which compliments the ‘nightmare’ scene. The last note is super scrummy. I wish this had ended the second act.
I imagine a lot of families and children will watch this, so I do think it’s in their best interest to reduce the running time. The story is simple yes, but it could still be tighter.
Something for Gen Z and Alphas
The setting for this musical is in the most beautiful European locations that are gorgeously depicted with the use of innovative digital screens. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Behind the action, realistic graphics take us from the glorious mountains to the quaint streets of Vienna.
The detail is quite something, even down to slightest movement in the leaves as the breeze passes by. This musical could have felt quite outdated in styling, but this digital design creates a contemporary, clean look that should please most Gen Zers and Alphas.
Identical is a wholesome musical that has double the heart. Families should flock to this for a fun, feel good experience.
Playing at The Lowry in Salford until Saturday 3 September 2022.