David Hunter and Lucie Jones reunite on stage in 13 Going On 30 The Musical
Based on the 2004 rom-com classic starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo, 13 Going On 30 The Musical tells the story of Jenna Rink, on her 13th birthday, just wanting to fit in with her peers.
But when best friend Matt gives her magic wishing dust, she wakes up to find she has been catapulted forward seventeen years into the future to find she is a successful fashion magazine editor with a famous footballer boyfriend – living out every teenagers dream.
But soon the cracks in her perfect life begin to show and she goes on a journey of self discovery to find out what really matters in life.
13 Going On 30 The Musical is written by the film writers Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa with songs by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner.
David Hunter and Lucie Jones reunite together on stage as Jenna and Matt, having previously starred together in the West End production of Waitress the Musical.
The chemistry between the two is electric, like twins separated at birth they mirror each other in equal measures of silliness and ridiculously high talent.
Dominic Anderson, as Jenna’s football playing boyfriend does a great job but unfortunately the character isn’t likeable and the ridiculous jokes about him being Canadian just aren’t funny.
Grace Mouat, most recently seen in the West End production of Mean Girls The Musical shows versatility and maturity in her portrayal of Lucy with a more serious character than in some of her previous roles.
The cast of children are incredible. From big dance numbers that look like something from High School Musical to serious moments of acting, they all excel in their performances.
The choreography in the show is fresh and hip and it is well directed by Andy Fickman (responsible for the huge UK hit musical Heathers).
13 Going On 30 The Musical is a lot of fun. The audience were 99% female (so much so that all of the men’s toilets had been changes to ‘ladies’ – making it rather difficult to actually find the one that had been left for men) and everyone had a great time. It probably won’t win any awards but I am sure it will have a successful run if it comes to London.
★★★★
West End Wilma
13 Going On 30 The Musical has now finished its run in Manchester.
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